[Vanshilar]

-------------
Cluster: 2631
-------------

_Drought: node 26315
A slightly damp farmer arrives with news.

{Earlier today, clouds rolled in and rain began to fall. Cheers
were heard throughout the village. But our hopes were dashed,
as the rain lasted for one brief hour.

{Sire, we must continue to fight.}

Do you:
[a] Send for Thor the Rain Maker.
[b] Try doing your own rain dance.
[c] Donate 1 Gold to the church.
{I will locate the legendary Thor and bring him to you.}
Thor arrives, grinning broadly.

{Sire, I was told you wished to hear more about my services.

{I have recently learned a new rain dance that has proven highly
effective in some of the other villages.

{For 2 Gold, I will perform the dance for you.}

Do you:
[a] Offer him 1 Gold.
[b] Do your own dance.
[c] Donate 1 Gold to the church.
{You drive a hard bargain.}

He ponders the offer for a moment.

{Very well, I accept your offer of 1 Gold.}
{Sire, without proper instruction, you could hurt yourself.}

The guards are motioned to remove him from your presence.

{Sire! Surely you need not be so harsh!}
{Sire, gold cannot buy you rain from God! I, however,
may provide some help or, at least, some entertainment.
{Do your own dance? What an idea! This shall surely
be worth seeing.}
{Sire, do you truly believe that a donation to the church will
help you get into God's good graces?

{I hope and pray that you are correct!}
_Drought: node 26316
The rain fell steadily for two days, but the moisture only penetrated the
surface of the soil. A farmer comes with a report on the fields.

{I am pleased to report that spirits are high. We were
able to save 2 percent of the food supply that we believed
to be lost.

{However, the rainfall was sadly insufficient to
eliminate the drought.

{Please, Sire. Will you provide further assistance to us?}

Do you:
[a] Try doing the rain dance yourself.
[b] Tell him that he should be grateful.
[c] Donate 1 Gold to the church.
[d] Donate 2 Gold to the church.
{Magnificent! The villagers truly enjoy seeing you dance.}

He begins to snicker, then to laugh loudly.
The guards rush him out the door.
{Sire, I would recommend rest to brighten your mood.}

He storms out of the room.
{May God bless you, Sire, and respond to your prayers.}
{May God bless you, Sire. The Lord loves a cheerful giver.}
_Drought: node 26317
Tiffany, a local beauty, comes to visit.

{Sire, our efforts to end the drought are succeeding.
Still, we suffer from the lingering effects of the drought.}

Looking into your eyes, she gently touches your hand.

{Please, we need your help.}

Do you:
[a] Tell her to come back when she has good news.
[b] Donate 1 Gold to the church.
[c] Tell her to do the rain dance.
She pulls her hand away and looks askance at you.

{I will be back, but perhaps not with good news!}
Tiffany enters your chambers once again.

{Please, Sire. Will you help, or
are you content to see your faithful people starve?}

Do you:
[a] Apologize and give her 1 Gold.
[b] Donate 1 Gold to the church.
[c] Apologize and ask if she will do the rain dance.
She leans over and gives you a big kiss on the cheek.

{I accept your apology. Thank you for your generosity.}
{A donation to the church? Very well, thank you.}

Tiffany looks confused as she leaves.

{Gold for the church? I must be losing my touch!}
{Dance? Me? I could not. It would be so... immodest.}
{Then again, perhaps I could.}
{Yes, I will do it.}
{A gift to the church? Very well, thank you.}

Tiffany looks confused as she leaves.

{For the church? I must be losing my touch!}
{Dance? Me? Would that not be unbecoming for a gentle maiden such as I?}
{Perhaps I should, since the situation is so grave.}
{Yes, I will do it.}
_Drought: node 26318
Rain has fallen for days and days on end.

A soaked Tiffany arrives.

{Sire, Sire, the villagers are singing in the streets!
Thank you for bringing the rain.}

She kisses your hand, then returns to the celebration.
_Exit Plague Part II: node 26319
Rain has fallen for days, seemingly without end.
Your prime agricultural land is flooded.

The villagers are thrilled about the rain, but dejected about
its overabundance.

The floods have destroyed a small fraction of your food supply.

-------------
Cluster: 2650
-------------

_Mining Accident: node 26500
A dusty, dirty miner arrives with tragic news from the foundry.

{Sire, one of our mine tunnels collapsed today. Some of the men
were injured while they were trying to escape.

{Regrettably, some of the miners are still trapped.

{The foundry is shut down, and we have lost nearly a quarter of our
iron supply.}

Do you:
[a] Donate shovels.
[b] Send men to help in the rescue efforts.
[c] Tell him to stop moaning and get back to the foundry.
{Thank you. I am sure that the shovels will come in handy.
I will keep you informed about the rescue efforts.}
The miner who spoke to you last week comes back with a status report.

{We were able to shovel out most of the trapped men.
However, we are in need of further help.}

Do you:
[a] Donate blankets.
[b] Give him 1 Gold for rescue supplies.
[c] Tell him you have nothing for him.
{Thank you, Sire. Anything that you can spare is helpful.}
{Sire, thank you. This will allow us to buy much-
needed supplies. We are ever grateful.}
{Nothing? You have nothing? I cannot believe that you are so
coldhearted.}
{I will gather a group of strong men to accompany me.}
{You are truly heartless.}

He slowly leaves, his head bowed in disbelief.

{You will regret turning your back on us.}
_Mining Accident: node 26502
A cloud of dust surrounds a strapping young man as he enters the
royal chambers.

{Sire, my father asked me to come and inform you that the men trapped
in the mine are now freed. But the tunnel completely collapsed, and
the vein to which it led is no longer accessible. It was the richest
vein we had.

{We feel that we may be able to unblock it if we can afford to hire
more workers. This will cost 1 Gold.}

Do you:
[a] Donate shovels and wheelbarrows.
[b] Pay 1 Gold.
[c] Tell him not to waste his time with the blocked tunnel.
{I am saddened by your lack of interest, Sire.}
{A very shrewd move, Sire. That vein contains a massive amount
of iron.}
{Sire, I will do as you wish. However, I must remind
you that we may lose even more iron in the future.}
_Mining Accident: node 26503
A distraught woman comes to see you,
sobbing uncontrollably.

{Sire, another tunnel in the mine has collapsed. Many men are trapped.}

She takes a deep breath and continues,

{My husband is among them. I beg you, please send help!}

Do you:
[a] Disregard her pleas and have her removed.
[b] Give 1 Gold.
[c] Send men with shovels to help.
She is dragged from the room.

{I will be back, and I will keep coming back until
my demands are satisfied.}
{God bless you. You are a wonderful man. Thank you.}
{Thank you for the assistance, Sire.}
_Mining Accident: node 26504
The mining accident continues to strain the community.

News from the foundry arrives with a woman from the town.

{Sire, falling debris has destroyed another fraction of our
iron supply. The situation is looking very bleak.

{The foundry is engulfed in a tremendous cloud of dust.}

Her expression becomes very intense.

{Please, Sire, we desperately need your guidance.}

Do you:
[a] Donate shovels, picks and wheelbarrows.
[b] Order her removed from your presence.
[c] Give her 1 Gold.
{Thank you. Supplies are much needed.}
She smiles.

{Oh, Sire, I love it when you talk that way.}
{Thank you for your donation. We will spend it wisely.}

-------------
Cluster: 2651
-------------

_Mining Accident: node 26515
A very dirty miner strolls into the room. He is smiling from
ear to ear.

{Earlier today, there was another mine collapse. When the dust settled,
we discovered a new vein of iron. It is worth 3 Gold.}

He begins to dance around the room.
{3 GOLD! 3 GOLD! 3 GOLD!}

The guards stop him from knocking over a bust of your head.

{Sire, I also wish to petition you for additional supplies
to allow us to complete our cleanup and return to a normal routine.}

Do you:
[a] Decree a day of rest.
[b] Tell him to stop celebrating and return to work.
[c] Give 1 Gold to hire extra men.
{This will be a day of great joy and celebration, Sire!}
The celebration has continued for two days without ceasing.

An older woman comes to complain about the noise.

{Sire, I hate to complain, but this celebration
has lasted far too long. Please tell these rude men
to get back to work!}

Do you:
[a] Tell her you will do your best.
[b] Have her thrown out.
{I knew that you would see it my way.}
{You are as bad as the villagers.}

The guards are motioned to remove her from your presence.

{Sire! There is no need to be rough.}
{Very well, Sire.}

He sulks as he leaves.

{What a party pooper!}
{Thank you. You are so thoughtful. More men will ease the workload
for all.}
_Mining Accident: node 26516
A blacksmith comes to complain.

{Sire, I have been unable to obtain iron from the foundry.
The workers refuse to work until the conditions are improved.
They say the mine is unsafe. Production has
come to a complete stop. You must do something.}

Do you:
[a] Tell him to stop wasting your time with his petty complaints.
[b] Send men to help with the cleanup.
[c] Give him 1 Gold to buy supplies.
{Sire, many feel these are not 'petty' complaints. I think you
should reconsider this rash decision.}

He stomps his feet as he is leaving.
You notice that the guards are watching him very closely.
{Thank you for your support.}
{Supplies will help ease the strain of the cleanup. Thank you.}
_Mining Accident: node 26517
Tiffany, a beautiful young maiden, brings news from the foundry.

{Sire, the foundry is slowly recovering from all the
stress of the recent accidents. Nevertheless, your assistance
is still needed to complete the reconstruction and cleanup.}

She moves closer to you.

{We just need Gold, supplies or anything else that can be spared.}

Do you:
[a] Tell her you have given all that you plan to give.
[b] Give her 1 Gold to buy supplies.
[c] Donate buckets.
{Sire! Where is your community spirit?
I will return in a day or two to see if you have changed
your mind.}
Tiffany is back

{Have you reconsidered, Sire? Will you help us?}

Do you:
[a] Apologize and give her 1 Gold.
[b] Give her 1 Gold for supplies.
[c] Apologize.
{I accept your apology. Now I must go shopping.}
{No apology?}

Tiffany looks angry as she leaves.

{At least we can use the gold!}
{An apology, but no more?

{Are you sure you did not forget something? Perhaps a
financial contribution to the cause?}

She sneers and departs abruptly.
{Thank you. Now I must go shopping.}
{Buckets? Is that all you can spare?}

{I must be losing my touch.}
_Mining Accident: node 26518
The foundry is back in operation.

The foreman from the foundry arrives with a status report.

{Sire, we are back at full operation. Because of all the work
done, we have increased productivity enormously. Thank you
for your help through these rough times.}
_Exit Plague Part II: node 26519
The foundry is back in operation.

The foreman from the foundry arrives with a status report.

{Sire, we are back at full operation. However, there was damage
to some of the tunnels, and we are not able to repair them. Our
productivity will remain down for some time.}

-------------
Cluster: 2660
-------------

_Explosion: node 26600
A loud explosion is heard in the distance.

Suddenly, one of the guards comes running in with news.

{Sire, there has been an explosion at the foundry.

{Many workers have been injured, and there is an enormous fire.

{The foundry foreman believes that approximately twenty percent of
the iron supply has been lost.}

Do you:
[a] Order him to leave.
[b] Send men to help put out the fire.
[c] Tell him to investigate further and bring a status report.
{You are truly heartless.}

He slowly leaves, his head bowed in disbelief.

{You will regret being so insensitive.}
{I will gather a group of strong men to take with me.}
Your guard returns with a status report on the foundry accident.

{Sire, I wish I had better news. The foundry is in a
state of chaos. There are many small fires, collapsed tunnels,
and injured workers.}

Do you:
[a] Send men to help with the rescue and fires.
[b] Give him 1 Gold for rescue supplies.
[c] Tell him you have nothing for him.
{I will leave at once. Thank you.}
{Sire, thank you. This will allow us to buy
much-needed supplies.}
{Nothing? You have nothing? I cannot believe that you are so
coldhearted.}
_Explosion: node 26602
You are handed a charred piece of paper with a message on the
foundry's status.

{Fires almost under control.

{Rebuilding underway.

{Need more men.

{Please send gold to hire fresh men.}

Do you:
[a] Order some young boys from the village to help.
[b] Send 1 Gold.
[c] Return it to the sender, pretending that you
never saw it.
A hysterical woman is heard screaming from the window,

{You cannot send my son to that dangerous place. Who
ordered this?

{Even a King would not send young children!}
The sound of a man's voice is heard bellowing through the
streets,

{Did you hear? My son is man enough to be sent to help
with the mining explosion.

{What a wise leader to recognize the strength of my son!}
A strongbox containing 1 Gold is sent to the foundry to hire
new workers.
The messenger returns the note to the foundry under protest.
_Explosion: node 26603
A distraught woman comes to see you.
She is sobbing uncontrollably.

{Sire, while cleaning up from the first foundry disaster, another
explosion was triggered. Many men are hurt and more damage
has been done to the foundry. I heard that still more iron
has been lost.}

She takes a deep breath and continues,

{I implore you to please send help!}

Do you:
[a] Disregard her pleas and have her removed.
[b] Give 1 Gold for aid.
[c] Send some of your strongest men to help.
She is dragged from the room, screaming and shaking her fists.

{You cannot silence me so readily! I will have my satisfaction!}
{Thank you, Sire. You are a decent man.}
She begins to smile.

{Strong men. I love strong men! I adore the way you think.}
_Explosion: node 26604
A hefty miner, nicknamed Moose, arrives with news.

{The foundry reconstruction is proceeding steadily.
Progress is slow, however, and we cannot determine when
the work will be completed.

{Our efforts will be more effective if you permit us to
hire additional workers. The cost would be 2 Gold.

Moose looks you straight in the eye.

{So, what will it be?}

Do you:
[a] Donate shovels, picks and wheelbarrows.
[b] Order him removed from your presence.
[c] Give him 2 Gold.
{Sire, thank you, but we need men to use these tools.}

Moose is struck in the back of the head.

{Ouch! You have a serious attitude problem!}

He leaves in disgust.
He smirks.

{A strong man! I respect a man who stands up for himself.}
{I shall hire new workers posthaste.}

-------------
Cluster: 2661
-------------

_Explosion: node 26615
A man is heard singing outside of your window.

{Happy days are here again.}

He begins to dance around the room.

{Iron! A new vein of iron! Worth 2 Gold!}

{Sire, Sire! Another explosion has led us to a new vein of iron.
It is estimated to be worth 2 Gold.

{But, in the excitement, someone knocked over a torch and set off a
small fire. Alas, our cleanup efforts have been further delayed.}

Do you:
[a] Give the miners a day off at a cost of 1 Gold.
[b] Tell him to stop singing and get back to work.
[c] Send extra men to help.
{Festivals! Gold! Maidens! Time to go; time is a-wasting!}
The revelry has continued for two uninterrupted days.

An old woman from the village comes to complain
about the noise.

{Sire, I hate to be seen as a wet blanket, but this celebration
is trying my patience. Please tell these rude men
to get back to work!}

Do you:
[a] Tell her you will do your best.
[b] Tell her that they deserve this reward for their hard work.
{I knew you would see it my way.}
{You are no better than the villagers.}

The guards are motioned to remove her from your presence.

{Sire! No need to be rough.}
{But... but what about celebrating? Please, Sire!}

He mumbles under his breath as he leaves,

{What a party pooper!}
{Your offer is welcome, although we would much rather be granted a
brief respite from our labors.}
_Explosion: node 26616
Moose, as he is known around the foundry, arrives with news.

{Sire, the entrance supports have collapsed. Some men are
still inside. We need help to rescue them.}

Do you:
[a] Tell him to stop wasting your time.
[b] Send men to help with the rescue.
[c] Give him 1 Gold to buy supplies for the rescue.
{The responsibility will be yours if lives are lost, Sire!}

He stomps out of the room, his contempt plain for all to see.

The guards watch him closely as he leaves.
{Thank you for your support.}
{Supplies certainly will help the cleanup. Thank you.}
_Explosion: node 26617
Tiffany, a beautiful young maiden, brings news from the foundry.

{Sire, the men have asked me to tell you that all goes
well. The foundry is almost ready to resume full
production.}

She leans closer to you.

{They were wondering if you...if you could send
some... wine... to them. They could use some recreation.

{Only 1 Gold, and you will ensure their happiness!}

Do you:
[a] Tell her to lift their spirits herself.
[b] Give her 1 Gold to buy the wine.
[c] Donate books for them to read instead.
{Sire! Where is your community spirit?
I shall return on the morrow to see if you have changed
your mind.}
Tiffany returns, as promised.

{Will you help us now, Sire?}

Do you:
[a] Apologize and give her 1 Gold.
[b] Give her 1 Gold for wine.
[c] Apologize.
{I accept your apology. Now I must leave and purchase a few
vats of wine.}
{No apology?}

Tiffany's gentle features twist into an unbecoming scowl as
she mutters,

{At least he parted with some Gold!}
{An apology, and naught else?}

{Have you not forgotten something, perhaps
a small monetary gift?}

With an unpleasant look on her face, she abruptly departs.
{Thank you. I must go. I can hear the men whining, even at
this distance.}
{Books? Do you think these men can read?}

{I must be losing my touch.}
_Explosion: node 26618
The foreman from the foundry arrives with a status report.

{Sire, the foundry is finally back in operation.
In fact, due to the repairs, we were able to increase
our productivity for the month.

{Your staunch support through this very frightening time will not
be forgotten. Our heartfelt gratitude to you, Sire.}
_Exit Plague Part II: node 26619
The foundry is back in operation.

The foreman arrives with a status report.

{Sire, the foundry is slowly resuming full
operation. During the next several weeks, we expect that
productivity will be significantly impaired.
This situation should be temporary. We expect to return to normal
operation soon.}

-------------
Cluster: 2670
-------------

_Killer Bees: node 26700

A villager comes running past the guards into the room.

{Oh Great One, a swarm of killer bees is attacking our people.
The village is in chaos.}

Do you:
[a] Spend 1 Gold for nets to catch the bees.
[b] Send for a beekeeper.
[c] Tell him to buzz off.
{Very well, Sire.}
{I know just the man for the job.}
{Sire, please do not dismiss this problem so hastily.
These bees have been known to kill.}
_Killer Bees: node 26702
A young girl arrives, carrying a large net.

{Sire, thank you for the nets to trap the bees. There is a problem
with them, however.
The holes are so big that these nasty bees are able to escape
through them.}

She holds up her arm to show you the stings she has
received.

{My father asked me to see if you
could give us more Gold so we can pay the netmaker to fix them.}

Her bottom lip begins to quiver.

{Please. Please, Sire.}

Do you:
[a] Tell her to make do.
[b] Give her 1 Gold to fix the nets.
[c] Send for the beekeeper.
A tear wells up in her eye.

{We are simple farmers, Sire. We just wanted some new
nets. That is all. Just some new nets.}

She turns to leave as the tears roll down her cheeks.

Do you:
[a] Let her leave.
[b] Reconsider and give 1 Gold.
[c] Reconsider and send for the beekeeper.
Her father steps into the room to take his little girl home.

He turns briefly toward you, bearing a look of contempt,
then gently comforts his daughter as they step from the room.
Her tears stop as her face brightens. She runs over and gives
you a delicate kiss on the cheek.

{Thank you! You are a kindly man!}
{I know him. He lives a short walk down the road from my house.}
{Thank you, thank you. Now we can catch those
mean old bees.}
{I know him. He lives very near to me.}
_Killer Bees: node 26703
A man wearing a huge hood and large gloves arrives.

He removes the hood and politely bows to you.
{Sire, I am Buzz the beekeeper. I have come to help you with your
bee problem.

{For 1 Gold, I will chase them from the town. But I cannot guarantee
that they will stay away.

{But, for 2 Gold, I will purge the village of the bees and dust it
with my bee dust. It prevents the bees from coming back.}

Do you:
[a] Pay 1 Gold and hope the bees do not come back.
[b] Spend 2 Gold to eliminate them.
[c] Send for the bee charmer.
{Sire, remember that I cannot guarantee that the bees will stay
away. I will do my best.}
{That is a wise idea. This sort of bee is very dangerous.
It is best to eradicate them all.}
{The bee charmer? He has not had the successes I have had.}

Buzz turns to leave and a swarm of bees follows him.
_Killer Bees: node 26704
Another villager arrives. His arms are obviously covered with
bee stings.

{Sire, the bees are attacking more viciously than ever. The more
frail villagers grow ill from the bee stings.

{We need help to get rid of these horrible pests before someone
dies.}

Do you:
[a] Tell him to go away.
[b] Provide 2 Gold to purchase herbs to ward off the bees.
[c] Send for the beekeeper.
{The bees will never leave unless you take action, Sire.
I will keep returning until you make a decision.}
{Thank you. Your generosity shall not be forgotten.}
{Buzz is a friend of mine. I will suggest that he arrange an
audience with you.}
_Killer Bees: node 26705
A handsome young squire with a red and blotchy face enters the room.

{Sire, our bee stings are beginning to heal. The village is
slowly returning to its familiar routine.

{However, there is still a need for your assistance. We need
ointment to help with the bee stings. Also, not all of the bees are
gone yet.}

Do you:
[a] Order him to leave.
[b] Donate wine to ease their pain.
[c] Give him 1 Gold.
{I do not give up easily. I have a responsibility to
the people of the village. I will be back.}
The young squire returns, hat in hand.

{Sire, I have granted you ample time to reconsider your position.
Will you help the village?}

Do you:
[a] Order him to leave.
[b] Donate wine to ease their pain.
[c] Give him 1 Gold.
{You are heartless, Sire. The village has looked to you
for help and you have turned your back. They will not
soon forget this.}
{Your wine will certainly help to distance the villagers
from the pain of their travails.}
{I can see that the light of reason guides you. Thank you.}
{A mug of mulled wine certainly sounds grand to me. Thank you!}
{Sire, you are truly the gracious leader I have heard you to be.}

-------------
Cluster: 2671
-------------

_Killer Bees: node 26716
{I am Sir Bee Tranquil, the bee charmer. I can cast a spell on
any bee in the land.

{My services include the following:

{For 2 Gold I will hypnotize the bees and purchase special
traps that will almost certainly keep the bees from escaping.

{For 1 Gold I will hypnotize the bees, but I will not be able to
purchase the traps.}

Do you:
[a] Spend 2 Gold.
[b] Spend 1 Gold.
[c] Send for the beekeeper.
{I will place the order for the traps immediately. It
is a pleasure doing business in your fine kingdom, Sire.}
{I will dispose of these annoying bees with all dispatch.}
{You are obviously not open to the latest in bee control.}

He shakes his head in disbelief as he leaves.
_Killer Bees: node 26717
The young squire arrives with news of the bees.

{The good news is that we have not seen a bee in days.
Alas, the bad news is that the bee stings have accentuated the
tempestuous behavior of the villagers. They are in need of some good cheer.
I have some ideas, but I need Gold for my purchases.}

Do you:
[a] Tell him that you are tired of his demands.
[b] Donate wine.
[c] Give him 1 Gold.
{Sire, this sort of treatment will not win you many friends!}
{Wine! What a fine idea.}
{Thank you for your generosity. This will make the
villagers very happy.}
_Killer Bees: node 26718
A beautiful maiden arrives.

{Sire, the village is back to its normal routine.
Thank you for helping us through this stinging ordeal.}

She leans over and whispers,

{I would be happy to demonstrate the depth of my gratitude to you.}
_Exit Plague Part II: node 26719
The young squire is back. He looks somewhat disgruntled.

{Sire, the bees are all gone, and all is well with the villagers.

{Nonetheless, your neglect is still fresh in their memories. It would
be wise for you to have a food taster present at your every meal.}

Your royal taster, fork in hand, pales and slumps to the floor.

-------------
Cluster: 2680
-------------

_Weapons: node 26800
Sir Gunny, the local weapons salesman, arrives.

{Sire, I have some new weapons to show you today.

{What would you like to examine?}

Do you:
[a] Look at the Super Catapult.
[a] Look at the Automatic Bow and Arrow set.
[b] Look at the infamous Stink Bomb.
[b] Look at the Flaming Pigeon starter kit.
[c] Tell him to go away.
{Excellent choice. The Super Catapult is always a
popular item wherever I go. I shall bring you
a sample in a few days.}
{Ah, the Automatic Bow and Arrow set.
This little number is moving quickly.
I shall revisit your lovely castle in a few days.}
{The Stink Bomb is a wonderful choice, Sire.
I shall have a sample for you in a few days.}
{Flaming Pigeons. Ah, yes, a splendid choice.
I will return shortly to demonstrate this hot new item.}
{Sire, I can see you are a busy man. Perhaps you will have
more time to talk in a fortnight or so.}
_Weapons: node 26802
Sir Gunny returns with the Super Catapult.

{Sire, I have brought some men to show you what a wonderful
addition this weapon will be to your arsenal. A large animal has
been readied as a demonstration of the projectile weights that
may be employed by this fine weapon.

{Ready, Fire!}
A massive, confused cow flies through the air, mooing plaintively.

{As you can see, this Super Catapult can be of great assistance to
you when in the heat of battle. Just imagine the plague and pestilence
that you could spread with one well-placed cow.}

Do you:
[a] Run a test on it.
[b] Buy it.
[c] Ask to see another weapon.
{Very well. Please feel free to test it yourself.}
{As you wish. I will return to discuss my price.}

As he leaves, he does a little dance.

{I might make Salesman of the Month yet!}
{Now I can buy that new cart that I have been eyeing!}
{What an easy target, this one!}
{I shall return with more samples.}
_Weapons: node 26803
Sir Gunny arrives with the Automatic Bow and Arrow set.

{Sire, this represents the state of the art in automatic weapons.

{It will improve your firing speed. Other customers have
been impressed with the results.}

Do you:
[a] Run a test on it.
[b] Buy it.
[c] Ask to see another weapon.
{Test it?}
{As you wish. But be careful. This is not a toy!}
{Marvelous! We can discuss an equitable price when I return.}

Just before he disappears from sight, you see him take a little
leap into the air. He mumbles to himself,

{I cannot believe he went for it! I am brilliant!}
{Watch out! I am on a roll!}
{No one will believe this! What a soft touch!}
{Very well, I will return with more samples. I am sure that you
will find something to your liking, Sire.}
_Weapons: node 26804
Sir Gunny brings the infamous Stink Bomb.

{Sire, do not let the innocent look of this little box fool you.
This is an exceedingly potent weapon.

{We use a secret formula that contains items such as
dung, skunk oil, garlic, and ram's bladder extract.}

Do you:
[a] Run a test on it.
[b] Buy it.
[c] Ask to see another weapon.
{Very well, but do so at your own risk.}
{Many who have used it incorrectly have had their friends
desert them.}
{Excellent selection! We may negotiate a price at our next meeting.}

As he leaves, he smiles slyly to himself, saying,

{Now I can pay off that bothersome bill collector
and secure the release of my family!}
{What a soft touch! I should come here more often!}
{Gracious, that was much easier than I thought!}
{I understand. Stink Bombs are not for everyone. I will
return with less noxious samples in a few days.}
_Weapons: node 26805
Sir Gunny returns, ready to show you the Flaming Pigeons.

{This demonstration is not for the faint of heart,
so leave if you feel you must.}

A group of twenty people draws closer. No one leaves.

{Let us begin the demonstration.}
{Flaming Pigeons provide a perfect means of distracting an enemy.
As the pigeons fly overhead, your enemy will look skyward. This
will make them easy prey to your attack.

{Do not hesitate. This is our hottest item!}

Do you:
[a] Run a test on it.
[b] Buy it.
[c] Ask to see another weapon.
{Very well. But be careful not to burn yourself on the wings.}
{Thank you, Sire. I will return to make the financial arrangements.}

As he leaves, he does a little dance.

{I cannot wait to tell the guys back at the home castle!}
{Now I can go on that dream vacation to Camelot!}
{That sale just put me into the Gold Club!}
{I shall fetch my samples.}

-------------
Cluster: 2681
-------------

_Weapons: node 26815
{Which weapon do you wish to examine?}

Do you:
[a] Look at the Super Catapult.
[a] Look at the Automatic Bow and Arrow set.
[b] Look at the infamous Stink Bomb.
[b] Look at the Flaming Pigeon starter kit.
[c] Tell him to go away.
{Excellent choice. The Super Catapult always
makes a big impact wherever I go. I will return with
a sample in a few days.}
{The Automatic Bow and Arrow set.
This little number is a fast mover.
I will return with a demonstration in a few days.}
{The Stink Bomb is a wonderful choice, Sire.
I will return with a sample in a few days.}
{Flaming Pigeons. A splendid choice.
I will return in a few days to show this hot new item.}
{You are a most difficult customer, Sire. I shall return
once more. Perhaps you will be more receptive then.}
_Weapons: node 26816
A delighted messenger arrives with news from the weapon test.

{Sire, the test was a huge success. All who were present were
impressed with the results. We grant it our hearty approval!}

Do you:
[a] Buy it.
[b] Don't buy it.
[c] Ask to see another weapon.
Sir Gunny enters your chambers, and says,

{Thank you, Sire. I will return to discuss the price.}

As he leaves, he does a little dance.

{Wait until I tell the guys back at the home castle!}
{Now I can go on that dream vacation to Camelot!}
{That sale just put me into the Gold Club!}
{Sire, you are a hard man to impress.
I will return in a few days to see if you have
changed your mind.}
{As you wish. I shall return in a few days.}
_Weapons: node 26817
A dazed messenger brings the results of the weapon test.

{Sire, the test was not successful. Perhaps this was
a bad unit.}

Do you:
[a] Buy it.
[b] Don't buy it.
[c] Ask to see another weapon.
Sir Gunny enters your chambers, and says,

{I see that you are a wise man, and can see beyond this minor
setback. When I return, we can negotiate a fair price.}

As he leaves, he does a little dance.

{Now I can pay off that bothersome bill collector
and secure the release of my family!}
{What a soft touch! I should come here more often!}
{Amazing! This shall not be my last trip to this fine kingdom.}
{I see. Nevertheless, I shall return once more in the hope that
you will have a change of heart.}
{Thank you, Sire. I will return with wonderful offerings for you.}
_Weapons: node 26818
Sir Gunny returns to discuss the cost of the new weapon.

{Sire, my prices are fair and reasonable. Of course, you must
remember that the price determines the quality of the goods.}

Do you:
[a] Barter.
[b] Pay 1 Gold.
[c] Pay 2 Gold.
{You want to deal. What commodity do you wish to trade?}

Do you barter:
[a] Crops.
[b] Timber.
[c] Iron.
{Crops.}

How much:
[a] 5 percent.
[b] 10 percent.
[c] Change your mind.
{Five percent sounds reasonable.}

As he leaves, he leans over to his assistant,

{We will give him the seconds.}
{Ten percent sounds reasonable.}

As he leaves, he leans over to his assistant,

{We will give him the ones that have been tested.}
{Changed your mind?}
{Timber.}

How much:
[a] 5 percent.
[b] 10 percent.
[c] Change your mind.
{5 percent sounds reasonable.}

As he leaves, he leans over to his assistant,

{We will give him the seconds.}
{10 percent sounds reasonable.}

As he leaves, he leans over to his assistant,
{We will give him the ones that have been tested.}
{Changed your mind?}
{Iron.}

How much:
[a] 5 percent.
[b] 10 percent.
[c] Change your mind.
{Five percent sounds reasonable.}

As he leaves, he leans over to his assistant,

{We will give him the seconds.}
{Ten percent sounds reasonable.}

As he leaves, he leans over to his assistant,

{We will give him the ones that have been tested.}
{Changed your mind?}
{Thank you Sire. I can see that you are watching your purse.}

As he leaves, he leans over to his assistant,

{Good! Now we can dispose of our old inventory.}
{Thank you, Sire! I will ensure that you receive the best units
in my inventory.}

As he leaves, he leans over to his assistant,

{Make sure that he gets the ones that have been tested.}
_Exit Plague Part II: node 26819
Sir Gunny is back.

{Sire, can I interest you in any of my wares?}

Do you:
[a] Tell him that you really mean {NO!}
[b] Ask him to show you what he has.
{As you wish. Your message is quite clear.}
{Very well. I shall fetch them from my cart.}

-------------
Cluster: 2690
-------------

_Camouflage: node 26900
Sara Thimble, the local camouflage sales representative, arrives.

{Sire, I have the most extraordinary camouflage for your
men. My girls have been sewing their fingers to the bone to
bring you some new designs.

{What would you like to see?}

Do you:
[a] Look at the nun outfits.
[a] Look at the tree outfits.
[b] Look at the enemy uniforms.
[b] Look at the horse outfits.
[c] Tell her to go away.
{Splendid choice. This is an excellent habit for
you to develop. I shall be back with
a sample in a few days.}
{The tree outfits.
These little numbers truly grow on you.
I can have a sample for you in a few days.}
{The enemy uniforms are a sly choice, Sire.
I shall have a sample made up for you in a few days.}
{Horse outfits. I am sure that these shall become a mane-stay
of your men. I can be back in a few days with a sample.}
{Sire, I shall come back in a week when you have
more time to talk.}

She murmurs under her breath,

{Give a guy a throne, and he thinks he can act like a King!}
_Camouflage: node 26902
Sara Thimble returns with the nun outfit sample.

{Sire, I have the nun habit for you to look over.

She hands over a fine black habit.

{As you can see, this is entirely handmade. It is a direct copy of
what the nuns are issued.

{Your men can wear these over their combat gear and sneak
up on your enemy. No one would suspect a group of nuns on
a walk. Right?}

Do you:
[a] Try it on.
[b] Buy it.
[c] Ask to see what else she has.
{Very well, try it out and see what your men think.}
{As you wish. I shall return to discuss the price.}

As she leaves, she does a little dance.

{I haven't lost my touch!}
{Now I can buy that new loom that I have coveted!}
{That sale just put me into the Golden Spool Club!}
{I shall fetch more samples.}
_Camouflage: node 26903
Sara Thimble arrives with the tree outfits.

{We finally finished sewing the leaves on the branches.

{This is one of our most successful items. If your men
wear these, no one will see them coming.

{I shall 'leaf' you to your own decision. Heh heh. A little humor
that I picked up from the tree doctor.}

Do you:
[a] Try it on.
[b] Buy it.
[c] Ask to see what else she has.
{As you wish, Sire. I shall have one of my girls help with the
branches.}
{Tremendous! We can discuss the price when I return.}

As she leaves, she does a little dance.

{This guy is starting to grow on me!}
{Thank God! I went out on a limb with this one.}
{I guess the leaf joke worked!}
{Very well, I shall return with more samples.}
_Camouflage: node 26904
Sara Thimble arrives with the enemy uniforms.

{Sire, it is best that you do not know where I obtained this design.

{Let me just say that my girls have many talents.

{These uniforms have obvious benefits. If your men wear these,
your enemy will be blamed for whatever your men do.}

Do you:
[a] Try it on.
[b] Buy it.
[c] Ask to see what else she has.
{As you wish.}
{But I suggest you do this in private. You might say this is a
hot item.}
{Excellent selection! When I return, we can discuss the price.}

As she leaves, she does a little dance.

{This will pay for that new thatched roof on the house!}
{I just might be able to afford that new dining set!}
{Now I can go shopping!}
{I understand. Enemy uniforms are a bit risky. I shall
return with some more conventional samples in a few days.}
_Camouflage: node 26905
Sara Thimble returns, ready to show you the horse outfits.

{This costume requires two people: the front end and the
back end. I know you have the wisdom to be able to assign
these positions.

{Horse outfits provide a perfect means of distracting the enemy.
Your men can act like a herd of horses.
When they get close enough, they can attack.

{Do not wait. This item is going fast! Even the monks have ordered
a dozen.}

Do you:
[a] Try it on.
[b] Buy it.
[c] Ask to see what else she has.
{Very good, I shall be here to help put on the head.}
{Thank you, Sire. I shall see you soon to discuss the price.}

As she leaves, she does a little dance.

{Wait until I tell the girls about this one!}
{It is getting harder and harder to earn gold today.}
{That sale just put me into the Golden Spool Club!}
{I shall fetch my samples.}

-------------
Cluster: 2691
-------------

_Camouflage: node 26915
Sara Thimble returns, hoping to show you more items.

{Sire, I hope you are ready to be dazzled. I have my latest and
greatest designs to show you.}

Do you:
[a] Look at the nun outfits.
[a] Look at the tree outfits.
[b] Look at the enemy uniforms.
[b] Look at the horse outfits.
[c] Tell her to go away.
{Superb choice. The nun outfits are quite
habit-forming. I shall have a sample in
a few days.}
{The tree outfits. Excellent choice! Even the bark is real.
I shall be back with a sample in a few days.}
{The enemy uniforms are a wonderful choice, Sire.
I should be able to mock up a sample in a few days.}
{Horse outfits are always a crowd pleaser.
I shall return in a few days to show you a sample.}
{I see that you are not ready to make a decision. I shall come
back in a few days.}
_Camouflage: node 26916
A young squire, pursued by an anxious Sara Thimble, arrives.

{Sire, the men have voted! They all agree that this costume
would be superb in battle. They recommend that you buy it.}
{Sire, the men agree that using this costume would be a cunning
strategy. Thumbs up!}
{Sire, these costumes are the best thing since swords! When can
we get them?}

Do you:
[a] Buy it.
[b] Don't buy it.
[c] Ask to see what else she has.
{Thank you, Sire. I shall return shortly to discuss the price.}

She seems quite pleased.

{It is getting harder and harder to earn gold today.}
{I just might beat out that pesky dung salesman for
Wheeler-Dealer of the Month!}
{And I thought this was going to be a hard sell!}
{Sire, I will give you several days to mull it over.
I shall return to see how you are doing.}
{As you wish. I shall return in a few days.}
_Camouflage: node 26917
A young squire, pursued by a concerned Sara Thimble, arrives.

{Sire, the men have sent me here to find out what
ails you. What made you think that this was
a good idea?}
{The men have sent me here to ask you...ARE YOU CRAZY?}
{Sire, this costume is quite possibly the worst idea you
have ever had.}

Do you:
[a] Buy it anyway.
[b] Don't buy it.
[c] Ask to see what else Sara has.
{Excellent selection! When I return we can discuss my price.}

Sara smiles,

{Now I can pay off that annoying bill collector
and get my head seamstress out of debtor's prison!}
{What a soft touch! I should come here more often!}
{This will get me into a new flat in the good part of town!}
Sare frowns,

{I see. Still, I will see you once more. Perhaps you will have
a change of heart.}
She says,

{Thank you, Sire. I shall return with wonderful offerings for you.}

-------------
Cluster: 2700
-------------

_Camouflage: node 27008
Sara Thimble is ready to talk business.

{Sire, I am flexible on the cost. My girls can work within your
budget. But remember that they are more motivated if the price is
right.}

Do you:
[a] Barter.
[b] Pay 1 Gold.
[c] Pay 2 Gold.
{I can work with you. What do you have to offer?}

Do you barter:
[a] Crops.
[b] Timber.
[c] Iron.
{Crops.}

How much:
[a] 5 percent.
[b] 10 percent.
[c] Change your mind.
{Five percent sounds very reasonable.}

As she leaves, she leans over to her assistant,
{Get the returns out. It looks like we
have found a buyer.}
{Is this guy cheap, or what? He will learn
to pay for quality if he wants it.}
{Time to clear out the old inventory!}
{Ten percent sounds very reasonable.}

As she leaves, she leans over to her assistant,
{We shall give him the newest ones.}
{I suppose we had better give him the good ones.}
{We had better make some good ones this time.}
{Typical man. Can never make up his mind.}
{Timber.}

How much:
[a] 5 percent.
[b] 10 percent.
[c] Change your mind.
{Five percent sounds very reasonable.}


As she leaves, she leans over to her assistant,
{Get the returns out. It looks like we
found a buyer.}
{This guy sure is a cheapskate. Maybe someday he will
{learn to pay for quality if he wants it.}
{We shall give him the seconds.}
{Ten percent sounds very reasonable.}

As she leaves, she leans over to her assistant,
{We shall give him the newest ones.}
{I think we should give him the good ones.}
{We should try to make some good ones this time.}
{Changed your mind?}
{Iron}

How much:
[a] 5 percent.
[b] 10 percent.
[c] Change your mind.
{Five percent sounds very reasonable.}

As she leaves, she leans over to her
assistant,
{Get the returns out. It appears that we have
found a buyer.}
{What a loser! He will learn his lesson some day.}
{We shall give him the seconds.}
{Ten percent sounds very reasonable.}

As she leaves, she leans over to her assistant,
{We shall give him the newest ones.}
{I want to give him the good ones.}
{Perhaps we should actually try to deliver the goods, eh?}
{Changed your mind?}
{Thank you, Sire! I see that you are on a tight budget.}

As she leaves, she leans over to her assistant,

{Get the returns out. It appears that we have found a buyer.}
{Is this guy cheap, or what? He will learn
{to pay for quality if he wants it.}
{We shall give him the seconds.}
{For you, Sire, only the best! It is a pleasure doing
business with you.}

As she leaves, she leans over to her assistant,
{He will probably expect decent quality. We had better get busy!}
{No seconds for this guy.}
{We may actually have to make some new ones.}
_Exit Plague Part II: node 27009
Sara Thimble appears once more.

{Sire, have you changed your mind about my wares?}

Do you:
[a] Say {NO!} and erect a No Solicitors sign.
[b] Ask her to show what she has.
{Sire, I detect a subtle hint of disapproval in your voice.
I will leave.}
{Very well. I shall be but a moment while I
retrieve them from my cart.}

-------------
Cluster: 2710
-------------

_Fertilizer: node 27100
Sir Vincent, the local fertilizer salesperson, arrives
to peddle his dung. It is a dirty job, but someone has to do it.

{Your Majesty, I have a fine selection of dung for you today.

{Which type would you like to experience?}

Do you:
[a] Inspect the Premium Dung.
[b] Inspect the Economy Dung.
[c] Inspect the Plain Wrap Dung.
[d] Tell him {No, thanks.}
{Splendid choice. The Premium Dung always
makes an impact. I will be back with
some samples in a few days.}
{The Economy Dung is an apt choice, Sire.
I will be back after I let it ferment for a day or two.}
{Plain Wrap Dung, as you wish.}

As he leaves, he murmurs under his breath,

{What a cheap dunghead!}
{Sire, I will return in a week when you are not so busy.}

As Sir Vincent leaves, he murmurs under his breath,

{Obviously, a throne does not a great King make.}
_Fertilizer: node 27102
Sir Vincent returns with a Premium Dung sample.

{This is the creme de la creme of dung. Sire, this will make
your tomatoes robust, your zucchini long and hard, and your
foliage large and leafy.

{Who could turn down an offer like this?}

Do you:
[a] Ask to see the other choices.
[b] Buy it for 2 Gold.
[c] Tell him to go away.
{As you wish. I will not force you to buy. But I cannot be
deterred quite so easily.}

As Sir Vincent leaves, he mumbles,

{This is a much harder sale than I had anticipated!}
{So much for the burgeoning merchant classes once destined to
bring an era of unprecedented growth and prosperity to the
European continent.}
{This job stinks!}
{I smell a deal yet!}
{Excellent selection! What an nose for a deal you have, Sire.}

Sir Vincent dances out of the room, babbling,

{Chump! He fell for ye olde Premium Dung trick.}
{Now I can afford to get those dung stains removed
from the floor!}
{That shipment will allow me to breathe easier!}
{What? Doth your dung not stink? I will be back.}
_Fertilizer: node 27103
Sir Vincent arrives with the Economy Dung.

{The Economy Dung is our most popular grade.

{This will make your crops grow at a slightly higher rate,
if used in the proper proportions.}

Do you:
[a] Ask to see the other choices.
[b] Buy it for 1 Gold.
[c] Barter.
[d] Tell him to go away.
{I see that you like to shop around. Very well.
In a few days, I shall bring to you another prime pile of dung.}

He mumbles as he leaves,

{Bummer! Now I have to get my dung together again.}
{Same dung, different day.}
{I suppose that is how the dung falls.}
{Sire, what a thrifty choice. The Economy Dung is just
the ticket for a man such as yourself.}

As Sir Vincent leaves, he snickers audibly,

{Who says this job pays like dung?}
{This sale could put me into the Dung
Slingers Hall of Fame!}
{Whoopee! Now I can afford to buy that state-of-the-art
dung shovel!}
{A wheeler-dealer. I like that. I will present my offer forthwith.}
{I can understand not wanting my dung. But must you be
so gruff? I will call again, Sire.}
_Fertilizer: node 27104
Sir Vincent is back with the Plain Wrap Dung.

{Sire, the Plain Wrap Dung is our most cost-effective dung.

{It is highly popular with my economically disadvantaged customers.}

Do you:
[a] Reconsider and ask to see other choices.
[b] Buy it for 1 Gold.
[c] Barter.
[d] Tell him to go away.
{As you wish. I will scrape up some samples.}

{It's a dung deal!}
{Peddling this dung is getting really old!}
{Another day, another pile of dung to sell.}
{Such an eye for a bargain. How gold-wise you are, Sire.}

As Sir Vincent leaves, he smiles to himself and whispers,

{Now I can get rid of the big pile of dung
from the stable!}
{I cannot wait to tell the folks back at the
home castle about this!}
{Now I can afford to take a bath.}
{That Dung Mover of the Year award is still within reach!}
{So, you want to deal? I will be ready to bargain in a few days.}
{Sire, does my dung offend you? I will leave for now, but
not forever.}