"Border Reivers" by "Vivienne Dunstan".
The story headline is "An Interactive Historical Adventure".
The story genre is "Mystery".
The release number is 1.
The story description is "It's late fifteenth century Scotland, and the dangerous world of the Anglo-Scottish Border Reivers. A murder has been committed, and it's your task as the Warden's son to try to find out who was responsible. Can you solve the mystery before it's too late? Or will others die before the criminal is unmasked?".
Release along with cover art ("A view of Hermitage Castle.").
The story creation year is 2018.

[maybe picking something from main table getting response from step-mother; showing something to ____ _____ ditto? Or what about finding something hidden / left somewhere, and showing it to people and seeing what their response is?]

Include Basic Screen Effects by Emily Short.

Include Questions by Michael Callaghan.

start-time is a time variable.
trigger-time is a time variable.
maid-trigger-time is a time variable.
main-duration is a time variable.
first-duration is a time variable.

start-time is 7:20 PM.
main-duration is 120 [105] [90] minutes.
first-duration is [45] [50] 70 minutes.
maid-trigger-time is 11:59 PM. [needed to stop it being daft!]

seen-maid is a truth state that varies.
seen-maid is false.

A person can be captive or free. The player is free. 

Part 1 - Rooms

Castle Entrance is a room. "You are standing outside the entrance to the castle, which rises out of the mist all around you, its leaden walls striking terror into many when they first see them. The castle gates are open, and lie to the north of here, leading to the courtyard.". Some walls and some gates and the mist and the keep are scenery in the Castle Entrance. The description of the walls is "Tall and imposing, the slate grey walls rise up from the ground.". Understand "leaden" and "wall" as walls. The description of the gates is "The castle gates are open, and you can go straight in. During more dangerous periods the gates are closed as necessary.". Understand "gate" as gates. The description of the mist is "The mist swirls around you, giving a constantly changing landscape of barely glimpsed details.". The description of the keep is "Grim and imposing, the castle strikes terror into all who see it.". Understand "hermitage" and "castle" as keep. The printed name of the keep is "castle".
Instead of opening the gates, say "The castle gates are already open.".
Instead of closing the gates, say "You are not in any position to close the massive castle gates.".

Dummy Location1 is west and east and south and southwest and southeast from Castle Entrance.

Instead of going south from Castle Entrance, say "Around Hermitage Castle is wild, desolate countryside. You came here to help your father. What you seek is inside the castle, not outside.".

Instead of going southwest from Castle Entrance, say "Around Hermitage Castle is wild, desolate countryside. You came here to help your father. What you seek is inside the castle, not outside.".

Instead of going southeast from Castle Entrance, say "Around Hermitage Castle is wild, desolate countryside. You came here to help your father. What you seek is inside the castle, not outside.".

Instead of going east from Castle Entrance, say "Around Hermitage Castle is wild, desolate countryside. You came here to help your father. What you seek is inside the castle, not outside.".

Instead of going west from Castle Entrance, say "Around Hermitage Castle is wild, desolate countryside. You came here to help your father. What you seek is inside the castle, not outside.".

Courtyard is north of Castle Entrance. Courtyard is inside of Castle Entrance. "Below your feet are cobbles that have seen hundreds of years of human and horsed feet crossing them. This somewhat claustrophobic courtyard is the main route into the castle, with a dark stairwell leading to upper floors to the north. There are also arched exits to the east and west, and an open route to the castle exit to the south.". Some cobbles and the stairwell and some arched exits and the exit are scenery in the Courtyard. The description of the cobbles is "Uneven, made from differently sized stones, the cobbles provide a reassuring surface on entry into the castle.". Understand "floor" and "surface" and "stones" as cobbles. The description of the stairwell is "The stairwell is rather dark, but you know where it leads, up into the castle proper.". Understand "stairs" and "staircase" as stairwell. The description of the arched exits is "The plain and simple arches, rather small in scale, lead to the east and west.". Understand "arches" and "arch" and "exit" as arched exits. The description of the exit is "Leading out of the castle, looking back through the entrance reveals little of the countryside around.". Understand "open route" and "open" and "route" as exit.

Guard Room is west of Courtyard. "This dark and rather oppressive room is the main base for the castle guards. Straw on the floor provides a rough base, with torches in the walls lighting the room barely and casting severe shadows.". The straw and some torches and some shadows are scenery in the Guard Room. The description of the straw is "Straw is scattered all over the floor, probably for the best.". Understand "floor" as straw. The description of the torches is "Torches are placed in the walls around the guard room, burning, to provide much-needed light.". Understand "torch" as torches. The description of the shadows is "The shadows cast by the light from the torches are unnerving, to say the least.". Understand "shadow" as shadows.
Instead of taking the torches, say "You consider taking a torch, but on second thoughts think the torches are best left here.".

Stables is east of Courtyard. "Strong with the smell of horses and their waste products this is the part of the castle where horses for the lords, visitors and regular guards are stabled. Peering into the dark you can just make out many horses and also hear them moving about. An archway leads to the west.". Some horses and a stable-archway and a smell are scenery in the Stables. The description of the horses is "Fierce beasts, the horses move about restlessly in the stables.". The description of the stable-archway is "A simple stone arch, it opens to the courtyard in the west.". The printed name of the stable-archway is "archway". Understand "arch" and "archway" as stable-archway. The description of the smell is "The smell of horses is overwhelming, in this confined space.". Understand "horse" as horses.

Instead of smelling in the Stables:
	say "You hardly need to make a special effort. The smell of horses is everywhere here.".

Lower Stairwell is north of Courtyard. "An arched entrance leads to the courtyard to the south, while a narrow staircase winds up into the main body of the castle. To the west a small passage leads away.". The stairwell staircase and the stairwell arched entrance are scenery in the Lower Stairwell. The printed name of stairwell staircase is "staircase". The printed name of the stairwell arched entrance is "arched entrance". Understand "staircase" and "stairs" and "stair" as stairwell staircase. Understand "arch" and "arched" and "entrance" as stairwell arched entrance.

Middle Stairwell is up from Lower Stairwell. "You find yourself halfway up the stairs in the castle. Below you can feel a faint breeze coming from the exit out into the courtyard. Above you the stairs continue to climb. To the south an archway leads through to a large room. An exit also leads to the east.". A breeze and some stairs and an archway are scenery in the Middle Stairwell. The description of the breeze is "Just barely perceptible on your skin, you can feel a slight breeze coming in from outside the castle.". The description of some stairs is "The stairs lead up and down from here.". The description of the archway is "Rather grand, the stone archway leads south into a large room.". Understand "large room" and "large" and "room" as archway.

Upper Stairwell is up from Middle Stairwell. Instead of going up from Middle Stairwell, say "Upstairs from here are the castle's main sleeping quarters, used primarily by your own family. You think there are unlikely to be any clues there, and you should focus your attention elsewhere.".

Eastern Corridor is east of Middle Stairwell. "This short and stark corridor runs from the stairs to the west. To the south a doorway leads into another chamber.". The eastern stairs and the eastern doorway are scenery in the Eastern Corridor. The printed name of eastern stairs is "stairs". Understand "stair" and "stairs" as eastern stairs. The printed name of eastern doorway is "doorway". Understand "door" and "doorway" as eastern doorway.

[Storeroom is east of Eastern Corridor. "This small chamber is a storage room just off the eastern corridor near the Great Hall. There is no natural light in here, or any form of artificial light, but enough illumination is coming in from the corridor outside for you to see.". Some junk is scenery in the Storeroom. Understand "storeroom" and "store room" and "chamber" and "storage room" and "storage" and "here" as junk. Some illumination is scenery in the Storeroom. Understand "light" as illumination.
Instead of searching junk the first time:
	say "You rummage through the mess of odds and ends, cleaning equipment, etc. Nothing seems out of the ordinary.".
Instead of searching junk more than the first time:
	say "You search some more, but find nothing of interest.".]

Keeper's Chamber is south of Eastern Corridor. "Smaller than your father's quarters, this is the office of the castle's keeper, Robert Elliot. The room is somewhat spartan by comparison with your father's - you know that Robert is neither a man of letters nor one much for reading. But it is comfortable, with a desk and chair for Robert, and a familiar location for you. An exit leads north to the rest of the castle.". [The keeper's furniture is scenery in the Keeper's Chamber. The description of keeper's furniture is "The room is sparsely furnished, with just a desk and chair for Robert.". Understand "furnishings" and "desk" and "table" and "chair" and "seat" as keeper's furniture. The printed name of keeper's furniture is "furniture".] The keeper's chair and the keeper's desk are scenery in the Keeper's Chamber. Understand "chair" and "seat" as keeper's chair. Understand "desk" and "table" as keeper's desk. The description of the keeper's chair is "A simple wooden chair, functional, but not as ornate as some.". The description of the keeper's desk is "Robert's desk is a plain wooden one.". The keeper's desk is a supporter.
Instead of entering the keeper's chair, say "You consider sitting down, but you have other things to do, so stay on your feet.".

Passage is west of Lower Stairwell. "This narrow passage leads to a room to the south, and the main stairwell to the east. It is clear from its compact scale that this area is for servants, not the residents of the castle.".

Kitchen is south of Passage. "A passage from the north opens into this relatively large room, used to prepare food for the castle. A fire is kept alight, to cook food and also to heat water. In the centre of the room is a large table, and on it, and on shelves around, are various pots and pans, and other kitchen equipment." The kitchen fire and the kitchen table and some potspans and some shelves and some equipment are scenery in the Kitchen. The printed name of potspans is "pots and pans". Understand "table" as kitchen table. Understand "pots" and "pans" and "pots and pans"  as potspans. Understand "shelves" and "shelving" and "shelf" as shelves. Understand "kitchen equipment" as equipment. The description of kitchen fire is "The fire is a simple but effective cooking mechanism that the cook can hang or place pots above.". The description of kitchen table is "Showing many signs of use over the years, especially chopping and bashing of pans, the wooden table plays a vital part in the kitchen.". Understand "wooden" and "large" as kitchen table. The description of potspans is "A mix of many sized pots and pans, of all appearances, these are vital for the cook.". The description of shelves is "Shelves ring the kitchen, providing much needed storage space.". The description of equipment is "You know nothing about cooking, and wouldn't know where to start identifying the other kitchen equipment. All you know is that it must have a role to play in feeding the castle's inhabitants, and is essential for the cook's purposes.". Instead of taking the potspans, say "Oh no, the cook wouldn't like that!". Instead of taking equipment, say "Oh no, the cook wouldn't like that!". 

The Great Hall is a region. Great Hall North and Great Hall High Table and Great Hall Middle and Great Hall South and Great Hall N-E and Great Hall East and Great Hall S-E are in the Great Hall.
Some hall-miscellany are a backdrop in the Great Hall. The description of hall-miscellany is "Various people are milling about the hall, gathered in small groups.". Understand "men" and "women" and "people" and "groups" as hall-miscellany. The printed name of hall-miscellany is "some people".

Great Hall North is south of Middle Stairwell. "This is the northern edge of the large Great Hall. Here a long side table for diners runs from west to east, with benches for guests to sit on. On the northern wall of the hall, behind the side table, is a tapestry of a sea scene. Beside this an exit leads to the staircase." The sea tapestry is scenery in the Great Hall North. The description of the sea tapestry is "The tapestry is a large one, covering the northern wall of the hall. It depicts a many turreted castle by the sea shore, with boats in the sea beyond, and sun glistening off the waves." The northern side table is scenery in the Great Hall North. The description of the northern side table is "The side table runs across the hall from west to east, with benches beside it." The northern benches are scenery in the Great Hall North. The description of the northern benches is "The benches in the hall are basic ones, designed to seat multiple diners." Understand "bench" and "seat" and "seats" as northern benches. Instead of entering the northern benches, say "You consider sitting down, but you have other things to do, so stay on your feet.". The printed name of northern side table is "side table". The printed name of northern benches is "benches". Understand "table" and "side board" as northern side table. Understand "sea" and "sea scene" as tapestry.

Great Hall High Table is southwest of Great Hall North. [Great Hall High Table is west from Great Hall North. Great Hall High Table is west from Great Hall South.] "This is the principal part of the Great Hall, with the high table where your father and other dignitaries sit during feasts. On the table you can see a variety of plates and cutlery, as well as food, the remains of people working through their meal." The hightable is scenery in Great Hall High Table. The printed name of hightable is "high table". Understand "table" and "high table" as hightable. The description of the hightable is "Unlike the other tables in the Great Hall this one is fixed permanently in place. It has ornate decoration, with a wooden canopy over the main seat, and painted cloths behind the table." Some plates and some cutlery and some food are scenery in Great Hall High Table. Understand "plate" as plates. The description of plates is "Various plates are scattered across the table, with food in various states of eating on them." The description of cutlery is "The cutlery is of quite a high standard, but still relatively rudimentary.". The description of food is "The food served is a mix of meats, including game, and vegetables." The wooden canopy and some painted cloths are scenery in the Great Hall High Table. The description of the wooden canopy is "The wooden canopy rises above and behind the main seat here, clearly marking its inhabitant - usually your father - as the person in charge." The description of the painted cloths is "The cloths are a rich red colour, with black patterns on them." The seat is scenery in the Great Hall Table. The description of the seat is "The seats at the high table are more comfortable than those elsewhere in the hall, proper seats rather than shared benches." Understand "seats" as seat. The hightable is a supporter.
Instead of taking the plates: say "You don't think you should move the plates from the table while people are still eating.".
Instead of taking the cutlery: say "You don't think you should move the cutlery from the table while people are still eating.".
Instead of taking the food: say "The food is appealing, and you are feeling hungry, but for now you should concentrate on the task your father set you. Perhaps you can grab something to eat afterwards?".
Instead of eating the food: say "The food is appealing, and you are feeling hungry, but for now you should concentrate on the task your father set you. Perhaps you can grab something to eat afterwards?".
Instead of entering the seat, say "You consider sitting down, but you have other things to do, so stay on your feet.".

Great Hall Middle is south of Great Hall North and east of Great Hall High Table. "This is the centre of the castle's large Great Hall. To the west is the high table, where your father and other dignitaries sit. Around the other edges of the hall are the side boards or tables for diners to sit and eat. The central section of the hall is open, for people to mill about in. Though you notice that, at least for now, people seem to be remaining in groups around the edge of the room. Above your head you see the ornate hanging chandelier, made from a stag's horns." The chandelier is scenery in the Great Hall Middle. The description of the chandelier is "From below the chandelier is an imposing and, if you are honest, intimidating decoration. On the one hand it provides valuable light for a dark castle hall, with many candles burning in their holders. But it also speaks of power, and hunting prowess. The stag must have been a massive beast, and difficult to kill." Understand "stag" and "light" and "horns" and "horn" and "candles" as chandelier. Some distant tables are scenery in the Great Hall Middle. The printed name of distant tables is "tables". The description of the distant tables is "The tables that you can see are away from here, in other parts of the Great Hall.". Understand "table" and "side boards" and "side board" as distant tables.

Great Hall South is south of Great Hall Middle and southeast of Great Hall High Table. "You find yourself at the southern edge of the large Great Hall. Here a long side table for diners runs from west to east, with benches running beside them for guests to sit on. Behind the side table is a tapestry of a hunting scene." The hunting tapestry is scenery in the Great Hall South. The description of the hunting tapestry is "The tapestry fills the southern wall of the hall, and shows men with dogs hunting wild boar. It is a dense forest scene, and doesn't look anything like this part of the Borders, though perhaps it is somewhat like Ettrick Forest further to the north." The southern side table is scenery in the Great Hall South. The description of the southern side table is "The side table runs across the hall from west to east, with benches beside it." The southern benches are scenery in the Great Hall South. The description of the southern benches is "The benches in the hall are basic ones, designed to seat multiple diners." Understand "bench" and "seat" and "seats" as southern benches. Instead of entering the southern benches, say "You consider sitting down, but you have other things to do, so stay on your feet.". The printed name of southern side table is "side table". The printed name of southern benches is "benches". Understand "table" and "side board" as southern side table. Understand "hunting scene" as hunting tapestry.

Great Hall N-E is east of Great Hall North and northeast of Great Hall Middle. "This is the north-eastern corner of the hall. The long northern side table extends to the west from here, with benches for diners to sit on on both sides of it. A small doorway leads northeast from here." The northeastern side table is scenery in the Great Hall N-E. The description of the northeastern side table is "The side table runs across the hall from west to east, with benches beside it." The northeastern benches are scenery in the Great Hall N-E. The description of the northeastern benches is "The benches in the hall are basic ones, designed to seat multiple diners." Understand "bench" and "seat" and "seats" as northeastern benches. Instead of entering the northeastern benches, say "You consider sitting down, but you have other things to do, so stay on your feet.". The printed name of northeastern side table is "side table". The printed name of northeastern benches is "benches". Understand "table" and "side board" as northeastern side table.

Great Hall East is south of Great Hall N-E and southeast of Great Hall North and east from Great Hall Middle and northeast from Great Hall South. "This is the eastern edge of the hall, beside the latrine to the east. Perhaps for that reason there is no dining table here, indeed there is little decoration of any kind.". The decoration is scenery in the Great Hall East. The description of the decoration is "There is really little of importance to see. Perhaps a few little carved details on the walls, but nothing that matters.".

Great Hall S-E is south of Great Hall East and southeast of Great Hall Middle and east from Great Hall South. "This is the south-eastern corner of the hall. The long southern side table extends to the west from here, with benches for diners to sit on on both sides of it." The southeastern side table is scenery in the Great Hall S-E. The description of the southeastern side table is "The side table runs across the hall from west to east, with benches beside it." The southeastern benches are scenery in the Great Hall S-E. The description of the southeastern benches is "The benches in the hall are basic ones, designed to seat multiple diners." Understand "bench" and "seat" and "seats" as southeastern benches. Instead of entering the southeastern benches, say "You consider sitting down, but you have other things to do, so stay on your feet.". The printed name of southeastern side table is "side table". The printed name of southeastern benches is "benches". Understand "table" and "side board" as southeastern side table.

Garderobe is east of Great Hall East. "This small room is the toilet nearest to the Great Hall. Empty, unsurprisingly, of all furnishings, it is a small stone-lined room. The light is poor, just enough to see the stone seat with a hole in it. Functional, but hardly somewhere that you want to linger.". The toilet is scenery in the Garderobe. The description of the toilet is "Just a hole cut into the stone, with the waste going down from there to elsewhere in the castle grounds.". Understand "seat" and "stone" and "hole" as toilet. Instead of entering the toilet, say "No, really, you'd rather not.".

Lord's Quarters is northeast of Great Hall N-E. Outside from Lord's Quarters is Great Hall N-E. "This is your father's main office here in the castle, when he is in residence. It is sparsely furnished, but has his large, comfortable chair, and a modest sized desk beside it. An exit leads southwest to the Great Hall.". The lord's chair and the lord's desk are scenery in the Lord's Quarters. Understand "seat" and "chair" as lord's chair. Understand "desk" and "table" as lord's desk. The description of the lord's chair is "A well carved and sturdy looking wooden chair, your father spends much time sitting here, when he visits the castle.". The description of the lord's desk is "Bearing much sign of use over the year, the desk is familiar to you, and smells of wood, ink and the passing of years.". The lord's desk is a supporter.
Instead of entering the lord's chair, say "You consider sitting down, but you have other things to do, so stay on your feet.".

Nearby Castle is a room. "A little distance away from the castle entrance, this is a low hilltop overlooking the castle. The air is filled with sparks and smoke from a small bonfire, that seems to have been thrown together crudely and quickly from scraps of wood and anything else that would burn. All around you see shadowy figures, moving rapidly to and fro, and the air is filled with voices, of men, women and even children. What is happening?!". The bonfire and some shadowy figures are scenery in the Nearby Castle. Understand "fire" and "spark" and "sparks" and "smoke" and "air" as bonfire. Understand "figures" and "shadow" and "shadows" and "shape" and "shapes" and "voice" and "voices" and "men" and "women" and "children" and "people" as shadowy figures. The description of the bonfire is "Burning strongly, this small pile of wood and other odds and ends throws a red glow all around. Sparks jump into the air, and smoke rises, filling the air with the smell of burning and menace.". The description of the shadowy figures is "You can't make out the people clearly, but there are shapes moving around, of all ages, men and women. You can also hear their voices.".

Instead of listening to Nearby Castle:
	say "The voices echo all around, though you can only barely glimpse the people speaking. It is very unnerving.".

Dummy Location2 is north and south and east and west and northwest and southwest and southeast of Nearby Castle.

Part 2 - Scenes

Chapter 1 - Prologue

When play begins:
	now the right hand status line is "[time of day]";
	now the time of day is start-time;
	say "Scotland, 1495:[line break][line break]The wind howls and in the distance you can hear wolves baying as the riders approach the castle. At the first sight of its grim outline against the moonlit sky a chill runs right through you. Only once before had you seen this place, a keep so full of terror and fear. Why did the Warden choose this of all places to hold the inquisition?"; say "[line break]Of course you had no choice. As his clerk you are obliged to accompany him on his duties, indeed have been since leaving university just over three years ago now. As the youngest, and illegitimate, son of the most powerful man in the Middle Marches you are luckier than most, if less so than your lawful brethren."; say "[line break]The reason for this visit is a grim one. Archie Elliot of Garrelhope, a small local laird yet with many kin nearby, has been murdered in less than seemly circumstances: his throat slit from side to side, his body unceremoniously left outside his keep. In the morning his youngest son found it, the poor lad never the same since."; say "[line break]The Elliots are calling for blood. They suspect the Scotts, their sworn enemies for centuries. God, when will these feuds end? So many die, day after day. Although you belong here, these Border lands are a wild and unholy place. Terrible acts are perpetrated by the Border reivers day after day, year after year."; say "[line break]So your father summoned all involved to meet this eve in Hermitage. A grim place to choose but deep in the heart of Liddesdale, it is the only keep large enough to accommodate the lairds and their hangers-on who will surely come. The Warden's decision is law here, although many resent this, and it will be his task to weigh up the evidence, identify the murderer and carry out the sentence all in one night."; say "[line break]And yet you are worried. There are things about this case that don't seem right. You can't put your finger on what bothers you, but whatever it is won't go away. Since rising this morning the uneasy feeling has grown rather than diminished as the day drew on. You mentioned it to your father but he brushed it aside as 'whelp's fancies'. You hope he is right.";
    pause the game.

Chapter 2 - Opening of game

Meeting Father is a scene.

Meeting Father begins when the player is in the Courtyard for the first time.

When Meeting Father begins:
	say "As you look around you a voice calls out 'Master Walter!' You look up and see the Keeper of the Castle, Robert Elliot of Redheugh approaching you. 'Thank goodness you came. Your father wants your advice. Come with me.' He leads you north towards the stairwell, then up one floor, then to the west, into the lower hall of the castle. You see many people mingling. But your father is not here. 'No, we must go to see the Warden.'[line break][line break]Robert leads the way up the stairs to the main chamber of the castle, which you enter, and see a mass of people gathered. The Keeper then leads you through a doorway at the northeast of the great hall, into the lord's quarters, where you see Archibald Douglas Earl of Angus, Warden of the Eastern March and Lord of Hermitage, sitting on a large chair. He rises as he sees you approach. 'My boy! You came!' and claps you on the shoulders."; say "[line break]Sitting back down he continues: 'I need your legal expertise. This crime is difficult to untangle. Will you help me? Yes or no? Please do not say no.'[line break]";
 	move the player to the Lord's Quarters, without printing a room description;
	[pause the game;]
	[say "[line break]Type yes or no[command prompt] ";
	if the player consents, ]say "'Of course, father,' you say, glad to receive such a warm welcome, but worried about what led him to summon you here.[line break][line break]'Excellent, excellent,' he says, clapping his hands together loudly. 'You know the basics of the case already I believe? That Archie Elliot of Garrelhope was murdered, brutally indeed. The Elliots blame the Scotts, but there is no evidence against them. However I believe the murderer - or his accomplices - is here in this castle tonight, and probably one of the reiving families. We have members of the Elliot, Armstrong and Scott families here tonight, as well as some of our Douglas cousins. I need you to interrogate those present for me. Use your keen legal brain. Look out for clues. Try to work out who might be responsible.'[line break][line break]He pauses, before continuing. 'When you are ready to begin this task return to the Great Hall southwest of here, where most people have gathered. But first take the opportunity to ask me any questions you have about the case and those involved with it.'[line break][line break]Use ASK FATHER ABOUT TOPIC to question him, for example ASK FATHER ABOUT MURDER. Use the command TOPICS to suggest other conversation ideas."[;
	otherwise end the story saying "Your father sighs. 'You have let me down my boy. So be it.' Looking up at him you see the pain of disappointment etched in his face. You leave the castle shortly afterwards."].

Before going southwest during Meeting Father:
	say "Seeing that you are ready to leave your father rises to his feet again. 'Be alert my boy, these people have much to hide. But I believe that you can help me. Good luck.'".

Meeting Father ends when the player is in the Great Hall N-E the first time.

Chapter 3 - Mid game, interrogating people in castle

Quizzing People in Castle is a scene. Quizzing People in Castle begins when Meeting Father ends.

When Quizzing People in Castle begins:
	now the maid-trigger-time is time of day plus first-duration;
	now the trigger-time is time of day plus main-duration;
	say "The Great Hall is filled with people, with others elsewhere in the castle. Take this opportunity to quiz those present about the crime and the families involved. To ask about a family or clan in general, ask about the surname in plural form, so Douglases, Scotts, Armstrongs or Elliots. Try asking people about other topics too, such as the murder, the body and any other clues, this castle, and about suspects. For instance ASK GEORGE ABOUT CASTLE or ASK KEEPER ABOUT ARMSTRONGS. For a recap of this conversation advice use the TOPICS command.";
	father arrives in three turns from now.

At the time when father arrives:
	move Archibald Douglas to Great Hall Middle;
	if Archibald Douglas can be seen by the player, say "Your father arrives from his quarters.".

Quizzing People in Castle ends when time of day is after trigger-time and player is in Great Hall.

Go see maid is a scene.

Go see maid begins when time of day is after maid-trigger-time.

Go see maid ends when Quizzing People in Castle ends.

When go see maid begins:
	if seen-maid is false:
		if Robert is visible:
			say "Suddenly Robert Elliot, the castle's Keeper, looks up sharply. 'Oh I forgot something I should have told you!' he says, looking in alarm from you to your father. 'Molly the maid said she might have information for you that would help in this investigation, young master.' He shakes his head, furious with himself. 'You wlll find her in the kitchen, north from the Great Hall, down the stairs and along the servants[apostrophe] passage to the west.' He continues to shake his head, clearly still furious.";
		otherwise:			
			say "Suddenly Robert Elliot, the castle's Keeper, comes over, looking agitated. 'Oh I forgot something I should have told you!' he says. 'Molly the maid said she might have information for you that would help in this investigation, young master.' He shakes his head, furious with himself. 'You wlll find her in the kitchen, north from the Great Hall, down the stairs and along the servants[apostrophe] passage to the west.' He walks away, continuing to shake his head, clearly still furious.".

Meeting Maid is a scene.

Meeting Maid begins when the player is in the Kitchen for the first time.

Meeting Maid ends when Go see maid ends.

When Meeting Maid begins:
	say "As you enter the kitchen, before you really have a chance to take things in properly, a young woman rushes over to you, curtsies quickly, and starts to speak. 'Young master, my name is Molly. I have something here for you.' She reaches into her pocket, and pulls out a scrap of paper which she hands to you. 'I found this when I was clearing out the gathered castle rubbish the other day. It may be of help, as you'll see when you read it.'";
	now seen-maid is true;
	now the scrap of paper is carried by the player;
	choose row 2 from the Table of Archibald Douglas's Chatter;
	now reply entry is "Your father peers at the note. 'Strange, my boy, I almost recognise the hand. But no, I cannot place it. This looks dark indeed,' he says, handing the paper back to you.";
	now summary entry is "the handwriting almost looks familiar";
	blank out the turn stamp entry;
	choose row 2 from the Table of Robert Elliot's Chatter;
	now reply entry is "'This is what Molly found I presume?' says Robert, looking closely at the scrap of paper. 'I do not like this at all! If only we knew who wrote it.' He frowns, and hands the paper back to you.";
	now summary entry is "he does not like the look of this at all";
	blank out the turn stamp entry;
	choose row 2 from the Table of Chief Guard's Chatter;
	now reply entry is "'What devilry is this?' asks the guard, studying the letter in shock. He hands it back to you.";
	now summary entry is "he is shocked by the letter";
	blank out the turn stamp entry;
	choose row 2 from the Table of Cook's Chatter;
	now reply entry is "He glances at the paper, before handing it back. 'I know nothing of this sir.'";
	now summary entry is "he knows nothing of the letter";
	blank out the turn stamp entry;
	choose row 2 from the Table of Castle Maid's Chatter;
	now reply entry is "'Yes, this is what I found, sir,' she says, handing it back to you.";
	now summary entry is "she found the letter";
	blank out the turn stamp entry;
	choose row 2 from the Table of Step-mother's Chatter;
	now reply entry is "'What is this Walter? Is it important? I'm afraid it means nothing to me.' She hands the letter back to you.";
	now summary entry is "the letter means nothing to her";
	blank out the turn stamp entry;
	choose row 2 from the Table of Brother's Chatter;
	now reply entry is "George looks at the letter grimly. 'Whoever wrote this was plotting against our father. You must find them!' he says earnestly, as he hands the letter back.";
	now summary entry is "you must find who wrote this letter and is plotting against your father";
	blank out the turn stamp entry;
	choose row 2 from the Table of Sister's Chatter;
	now reply entry is "'Take it back, please!' pleads Mariot in distress, as she hands the paper back to you. 'I do not like this at all!'";
	now summary entry is "she does not like the look of the letter at all";
	blank out the turn stamp entry;
	choose row 2 from the Table of Simon Armstrong's Chatter;
	now reply entry is "A dark look passes across Simon Armstrong's face, something that you find strangely unnerving. Then it is gone. He hands the paper back to you. 'No, I do not know what that is.'";
	now summary entry is "he does not know what the paper is, but his reaction to it makes you wonder";
	blank out the turn stamp entry;
	choose row 2 from the Table of Margaret Elliot's Chatter;
	now reply entry is "Margaret Elliot nearly collapses as she sees what is written on the paper. 'For God[apostrophe]s sake find the monster that wrote this!' she cries, handing the paper back to you.";
	now summary entry is "she is shocked to see the scrap of paper and what is written on it, and begs you to find the monster who wrote it";
	blank out the turn stamp entry;
	choose row 2 from the Table of Euphemia Elliot's Chatter;
	now reply entry is "Euphemia cries as she sees the letter. 'Take it back, sir, and do whatever you can to find the man who did that.' She hands the scrap of paper back to you, with evident distress.";
	now summary entry is "you must find the man who wrote this";
	blank out the turn stamp entry;
	choose row 2 from the Table of Walter Scott's Chatter;
	now reply entry is "'Whoever wrote this, and it was not a Scott, is behind this terrible deed!' says Walter angrily. 'Find him before he does any more damage!' He hands the letter back to you.";
	now summary entry is "the letter must have been written by the man behind this murder, and you need to find him";
	blank out the turn stamp entry;
	choose row 2 from the Table of James Douglas's Chatter;
	now reply entry is "'What work of the Devil is this?' exclaims James Douglas furiously. 'If I could get my hands on the writer! Find him, Walter, for God[apostrophe]s sake find him!' He shakes his head in disgust, and hands the paper back to you.";
	now summary entry is "he wishes he could get his hands on the man who wrote this, and says that you must find him";
	blank out the turn stamp entry;
	choose row 2 from the Table of John Logan's Chatter;
	now reply entry is "As John Logan takes the paper and looks at it he suddenly pales and looks panic-stricken. But the moment passes, he recovers, and hands the note back to you. 'No, I have never seen this before.'";
	now summary entry is "he has never seen the letter before, though his initial reaction makes you wonder";
	blank out the turn stamp entry;
	choose row 2 from the Table of Rogue's Chatter;
	now reply entry is "'Yes this was sent between the conspirators,' says the man. He laughs bitterly. 'If only you had the wits to figure it all out.' He hands it back to you.";
	now summary entry is "the letter was sent between the conspirators";
	blank out the turn stamp entry.
	
The scrap of paper is a thing. The description of the scrap of paper is "This is a roughly torn scrap of paper, part of a letter you think. The handwriting is messy and scrappy, and looks to have been written in a hurry. You can pick out two key phrases though: 'Kill Elliot now!' and 'will bring the warden here'. You feel a horrible fear as you read, sensing more at work than you had feared. Perhaps you should show it to other people or ask them about it to see what they think.". Understand "letter" and "note" as scrap of paper.
 
Chapter 4 - End game

Denouement is a scene. Denouement begins when Quizzing People in Castle ends.

When Denouement begins:
	say "Suddenly you hear shouts, and a guard runs into the hall. Spotting the keeper of the castle he runs to him: 'Captain! There is trouble outside, a gathering, some kind of bonfire. I don't know ...' Alarmed, the keeper rushes over to your father, who is already striding towards him. 'Come Robert!' your father says, 'and you too my boys. Let's see what it is.' Everyone else in the room is silent, seemingly stunned by what has happened. Your father leaves, and you and your brother follow, out of the castle.";
	now the player is in Nearby Castle;
	change the northeast exit of Nearby Castle to Castle Entrance;
	walter is seized in three turns from now.

Instead of going from Nearby Castle during Denouement:
	if the player is free, say "The people milling around combined with the fire and smoke are confusing your sense of direction. You are no longer even sure which way the castle lies. Furthermore you do not want to run away, and leave your father here.";
	otherwise say "You are being held firmly from behind, and cannot move away.".

At the time when walter is seized:
	say "Suddenly your arms are seized from behind, and you are dragged roughly backwards. 'Warden!' cries a voice behind you. 'We have your son. Stand clear before the bonfire, unarmed, or we will kill him, have no fear.'";
	now the player is captive;
	now the description of Nearby Castle is "You are gripped roughly from behind, and unable to move freely. Around you can still see the sparks and smoke from the bonfire, and shadowy figures moving in the darkness.";
	father steps forward in two turns from now.

At the time when father steps forward:
	say "From the darkness you hear your father's voice. 'Release my son!' Your father appears before you, silhouetted against the bonfire. 'Your quarrel is with me, not him. Let him go!' He stretches his hands wide, indicating that he is unarmed. After some brief fumbling your hands are released, and you are pushed roughly to the side, almost falling over as you go. 'My boy!' cries your father, with relief, before a rogueish man you don't recognise jumps forward, and presses a knife to your father's throat. 'Say nothing more, Warden, and listen to us!'";
	now the player is free;
	now the description of Nearby Castle is "You are free to move again, but shocked by what you see in the light of the bonfire. Shadowy figures still move nearby, barely glimpsed.";
	now Archibald Douglas is in Nearby Castle;
	now Rogue is in Nearby Castle;
	revelations occur in two turns from now.

At the time when revelations occur:
	say "'Who are you?' says your father, shocked, talking despite the instructions. 'My name doesn't matter, Warden. Call me Jack!' says the other man, grinning wickedly. 'What matters is you. Are you as clever as they say? Have you worked out what is going on? I will give you one chance to save your life. Tell me, who is behind the plot that brought you here? Discern the truth and we will let you live; speak falsely and you die!' 'You cannot ask this!' says your father, angrily. 'I do!' is the bitter reply, 'and remember it is not just your life that we hold in our hands, but members of your family too.' The rogue waves his free arm towards you and your brother, and your father looks scared for the first time you can remember. 'Walter, can you help me?' he says imploringly. 'You have been investigating this for me. What do you think?'";
	now current question is "Who do you blame?";
	now current question menu is {"the Armstrongs", "the Douglases", "the Elliots", "the Scotts", "somebody else", "don't know"};
	ask a closed question, in menu mode.

A menu question rule (this is the guilty answer rule):
	let N be the number understood;
	say "[line break]";
	if N is 1, do armstrongs response;
	if N is 2, do douglases response;;
	if N is 3, do elliots response;
	if N is 4, do scotts response;
	if N is 5, do somebody else response;
	if N is 6, do don't know response.

To do armstrongs response:
	say "'Ah you have intelligence I perceive,' says the man, begrudgingly, stepping slightly away from your father. 'Yes it was one of the Armstrongs, along with your father's treacherous scribe Logan. Step forward conspirators!' You look briefly across to your father - he is ashen-faced - as from the darkness step John Logan and Simon Armstrong. 'John, why?' asks your father. 'Why, your so-called Grace?' John replies bitterly, his face contorted into an expression you never thought to see there. 'For years of being treated like a slave, dragged to hell holes like this, and for what reward? No! I had had enough, and this was my way out.' At this his fellow conspirator Simon Armstrong speaks up. 'Yes, we worked together to bring you to this place Warden. It was easy to kill Elliot and draw your attention, weakening the Elliots in the process. Logan provided the brains for the plan, I provided the brawn.' 'And now here you are!' Jack says, spreading his arms wide for a moment, with a fearsome grin, before in a flash bringing the knife to your father's throat once again.[line break]";
	do good ending.

To do douglases response:
	say "'The Douglases!' says the man, laughing bitterly, and stepping slightly away from your father. 'No, it was not one of your family young master. No, this was a plot between Armstrong of Castlecleugh and your father's treacherous scribe Logan. Step forward conspirators!' You look briefly across to your father - he is ashen-faced - as from the darkness step John Logan and Simon Armstrong. 'John, why?' asks your father. 'Why, your so-called Grace?' John replies bitterly, his face contorted into an expression you never thought to see there. 'For years of being treated like a slave, dragged to hell holes like this, and for what reward? No! I had had enough, and this was my way out.' At this his fellow conspirator Simon Armstrong speaks up. 'Yes, we worked together to bring you to this place Warden. It was easy to kill Elliot and draw your attention, weakening the Elliots in the process. Logan provided the brains for the plan, I provided the brawn.' 'And now here you are!' Jack says, spreading his arms wide for a moment, with a fearsome grin, before in a flash bringing the knife to your father's throat once again.[line break]";
	do bad ending.

To do elliots response:
	say "'The Elliots!' says the man, laughing bitterly, and stepping slightly away from your father. 'No, you are mistaken. They would never hurt their own. This was a plot between Armstrong of Castlecleugh and your father's treacherous scribe Logan. Step forward conspirators!' You look briefly across to your father - he is ashen-faced - as from the darkness step John Logan and Simon Armstrong. 'John, why?' asks your father. 'Why, your so-called Grace?' John replies bitterly, his face contorted into an expression you never thought to see there. 'For years of being treated like a slave, dragged to hell holes like this, and for what reward? No! I had had enough, and this was my way out.' At this his fellow conspirator Simon Armstrong speaks up. 'Yes, we worked together to bring you to this place Warden. It was easy to kill Elliot and draw your attention, weakening the Elliots in the process. Logan provided the brains for the plan, I provided the brawn.' 'And now here you are!' Jack says, spreading his arms wide for a moment, with a fearsome grin, before in a flash bringing the knife to your father's throat once again.[line break]";
	do bad ending.

To do scotts response:
	say "'The Scotts!' says the man, laughing bitterly, and stepping slightly away from your father. 'No, you are mistaken. They were blamed by many, but not responsible this time. No, this was a plot between Armstrong of Castlecleugh and your father's treacherous scribe Logan. Step forward conspirators!' You look briefly across to your father - he is ashen-faced - as from the darkness step John Logan and Simon Armstrong. 'John, why?' asks your father. 'Why, your so-called Grace?' John replies bitterly, his face contorted into an expression you never thought to see there. 'For years of being treated like a slave, dragged to hell holes like this, and for what reward? No! I had had enough, and this was my way out.' At this his fellow conspirator Simon Armstrong speaks up. 'Yes, we worked together to bring you to this place Warden. It was easy to kill Elliot and draw your attention, weakening the Elliots in the process. Logan provided the brains for the plan, I provided the brawn.' 'And now here you are!' Jack says, spreading his arms wide for a moment, with a fearsome grin, before in a flash bringing the knife to your father's throat once again.[line break]";
	do bad ending.

To do somebody else response:
	say "'Ah you have intelligence I perceive,' says the man, begrudgingly, and stepping slightly away from your father, 'though whether you identified your father's scribe as the traitor I am less sure. Step forward conspirators!' You look briefly across to your father - he is ashen-faced - as from the darkness step John Logan and Simon Armstrong. 'John, why?' asks your father. 'Why, your so-called Grace?' John replies bitterly, his face contorted into an expression you never thought to see there. 'For years of being treated like a slave, dragged to hell holes like this, and for what reward? No! I had had enough, and this was my way out.' At this his fellow conspirator Simon Armstrong speaks up. 'Yes, we worked together to bring you to this place Warden. It was easy to kill Elliot and draw your attention, weakening the Elliots in the process. Logan provided the brains for the plan, I provided the brawn.' 'And now here you are!' Jack says, spreading his arms wide for a moment, with a fearsome grin, before in a flash bringing the knife to your father's throat once again.[line break]";
	do good ending.

To do don't know response:
	say "'You don't know!' cries the man, laughing bitterly, stepping slightly away from your father. 'So much for your supposed education Warden's whelp. No, this was a plot between Armstrong of Castlecleugh and your father's treacherous scribe Logan. Step forward conspirators!' You look briefly across to your father - he is ashen-faced - as from the darkness step John Logan and Simon Armstrong. 'John, why?' asks your father. 'Why, your so-called Grace?' John replies bitterly, his face contorted into an expression you never thought to see there. 'For years of being treated like a slave, dragged to hell holes like this, and for what reward? No! I had had enough, and this was my way out.' At this his fellow conspirator Simon Armstrong speaks up. 'Yes, we worked together to bring you to this place Warden. It was easy to kill Elliot and draw your attention, weakening the Elliots in the process. Logan provided the brains for the plan, I provided the brawn.' 'And now here you are!' Jack says, spreading his arms wide, with a fearsome grin, before in a flash bringing the knife to your father's throat once again.[line break]";
	do bad ending.

To do bad ending:
	now John Logan is in Nearby Castle;
	now Simon Armstrong is in Nearby Castle;
	let X be a random number from 1 to 2;
	if X is 1, warden is killed in two turns from now;
	if X is 2, son is killed in two turns from now;

To do good ending:
	now John Logan is in Nearby Castle;
	now Simon Armstrong is in Nearby Castle;
	let X be a random number from 1 to 3;
	if X is 1, logan is attacked in two turns from now;
	if X is 2, armstrong is attacked in two turns from now;
	if X is 3, make enemies for future in two turns from now.

At the time when warden is killed:
	say "Suddenly Jack moves, his blade shining in the light of the fire. Everything happens in slow motion, and you are powerless to stop it. As you watch in horror your father is stabbed in the chest, and falls to the ground. Around him people step back in shock, then after a moment the figures, including Jack, vanish into the darkness as if they were never there.";
	pause the game;
	say "Driven mad with despair and grief your family struggles to regroup after your father's death. Your priority is to find and punish the perpetrators, but they have gone to earth. More widely his death leaves a vacuum of power in Hermitage and throughout the Borders. You do not know what the future holds, but it is a bleaker, darker world than you woke to this morning.";
	end the story.

At the time when son is killed:
	say "Suddenly Jack lurches at your brother George, his blade shining in the light of the fire. Everything happens in slow motion, and you are powerless to stop it. As you watch in horror your brother is stabbed in the chest, and falls to the ground. Around him people step back in shock, then after a moment the figures, including Jack, vanish into the darkness as if they were never there.";
	pause the game;
	say "Driven mad with despair and grief your family struggles to regroup after your brother's death. Your father's priority is to find and punish the perpetrators, but they have gone to earth. More widely the death leaves a vacuum of power in Hermitage and throughout the Borders, as your father, wild with grief, cares for little else. You do not know what the future holds, but it is a bleaker, darker world than you woke to this morning.";
	end the story.

At the time when logan is attacked:
	say "Suddenly a figure appears behind Logan, and seizes him. It is the castle's Keeper, Robert Elliot! There is a brief scuffle, then the flash of a blade, and a cry, as your old scribe falls to the ground, clutching his side. Taking the opportunity afforded by the distraction, your father quickly grabs and restrains Armstrong, but the man Jack has vanished into the darkness.";
	pause the game;
	say "With the main conspirators captured and ready to face trial there is some resolution for Archie Elliot's family. But there is little satisfaction beyond that. You are more aware than ever of the dangers of this troubled land, and worry for the future of your father. But at least the immediate danger has passed.";
	end the story.

At the time when armstrong is attacked:
	say "Suddenly a figure appears behind Armstrong, and seizes him. It is the murdered man's widow Margaret Elliot! There is a brief scuffle, then the flash of a blade, and a cry, as Armstrong falls to the ground, clutching his side. Taking the opportunity afforded by the distraction, your father quickly grabs and restrains Logan, but the man Jack has vanished into the darkness.";
	pause the game;
	say "With the main conspirators captured and ready to face trial there is some resolution for Archie Elliot's family. But there is little satisfaction beyond that. You are more aware than ever of the dangers of this troubled land, and worry for the future of your father. But at least the immediate danger has passed.";
	end the story.

At the time when make enemies for future:
	say "Suddenly there is a flash, a sudden burst of light, almost like magic, but with your education you know better: someone has thrown something highly flammable on the fire. In the confusion you cannot tell who is where, but as the light subsides you realise that the conspirators have fled into the night. Your father, in a furious rage, bellows out the names of the traitors, but in vain.";
	pause the game;
	say "With the traitors still at large, especially Logan who caused so much damage to the heart of your family's sense of security, none of you can truly relax. The future is uncertain, but at least the immediate danger has passed. Beyond that, who can tell?";
	end the story.

Part 3 - People

Archibald Douglas is a man in the Lord's Quarters. Printed name of Archibald Douglas is "Archibald Douglas Earl of Angus". The description of Archibald Douglas is "Tall and well-built your father presents an imposing figure with a long black beard and a stern expression. Known informally as 'Bell the Cat' he is probably the most powerful nobleman in the country.". Understand "father" and "warden" and "archibald" and "douglas" and "earl" and "angus" and "bell the cat" and "bell" and "cat" as Archibald Douglas. A black beard is scenery and part of Archibald Douglas. The description of the black beard is "Greying at the edges, but mostly still black, your father's beard is long and trimly cut.".

Robert Elliot is a man in Great Hall Middle. Printed name of Robert Elliot is "Robert Elliot of Redheugh Keeper of Hermitage Castle". The description of Robert Elliot is "Reliable but tough when need be you have known Robert Elliot of Redheugh for some years, since he was appointed as Keeper of Hermitage Castle. He is one of your father's most trusted men, and you trust his views implicitly.". Understand "robert" and "elliot" and "keeper" and "redheugh" as Robert Elliot.

The cook is a man in the Kitchen. The description of cook is "In his late forties, or thereabouts, it's rather hard to tell, the cook is a small, wiry man, with short, greying hair. He wears an apron over his shirt and trousers. His sleeves are rolled up, and his arms look to be covered in flour.". An apron and a shirt and some trousers and some sleeves and some arms are scenery and part of the cook. The description of the apron is "The apron is rather dirty, but hopefully for good reasons, rather than bad.". The description of the arms is "The cook's arms look to be almost completely covered in flour. I guess he's been baking.". Understand "flour" as arms. Understand "cook's apron" as apron. Understand "cook's shirt" as shirt. Understand "cook's trousers" as trousers. Understand "cook's sleeves" as sleeves. Understand "cook's arms" as arms. Understand "archibald" and "smibert" as the cook.

The castle maid is a woman in the Kitchen. The description of castle maid is "The maid is very young, in her late teens you would guess. She wears a modest outfit, including maid's cap. Most of her time is spent assisting the cook here in the kitchen, though you have seen her elsewhere in the castle too.". An outfit and a cap are scenery and part of the castle maid. The description of the cap is "The maid wears a simple white cap.". Understand "maid's cap" as cap. Understand "maid's outfit" as outfit. Understand "molly" and "armstrong" as castle maid.

Step-mother is a woman in the Great Hall High Table. Printed name of step-mother is "Elizabeth Boyd Countess of Angus". The description of step-mother is "Your step-mother, the daughter of the Lord Boyd, is a tall woman in her forties. Her bearing is striking, and she has always treated you with kindness.". Understand "elizabeth" and "elizabeth boyd" and "mother" and "step mother" and "countess" as Step-mother.

Brother is a man in the Great Hall High Table. Printed name of Brother is "George Douglas Master of Angus". The description of Brother is "George is your oldest legitimate brother, and heir to your father's earldom and estates. Strong and athletic, George likes sports, though has little time for books or learning. George is in his early twenties, and not married yet.". Understand "george douglas" and "george" and "douglas" as Brother.

Sister is a woman in the Great Hall High Table. Printed name of sister is "Mariot Douglas". The description of sister is "Mariot is your oldest sister. In her late teens now she is a fond member of your family, kind to you, and patient. In looks she takes after her mother, but in personality has much of the Douglas side about her.". Understand "mariot douglas" and "mariot" and "douglas" as Sister.

The Chief Guard is a man in the Guard Room. Printed name of chief guard is "chief guard". The Chief Guard is improper-named. The description of chief guard is "The tallest of the guards, and also the bulkiest built, and physically most intimidating, you recognise him as the chief of the guards, and second only in command among the staff to the Keeper of the Castle. You have known him since you were young.". Understand "guard" as Chief Guard.

Margaret Elliot is a woman in the Great Hall East. Printed name of Margaret Elliot is "Margaret Elliot of Garrelhope". The description of Margaret Elliot is "The murdered man's widow looks sad, and older than her years, although who can blame her. Her dress is modest: a long plaid skirt, with a shawl wrapped around on top, and her grey hair pulled back." Understand "margaret" and "elliot" and "garrelhope" as Margaret Elliot. A dress and a skirt and a shawl and Margaret's hair are scenery and part of Margaret Elliot. The printed name of Margaret's hair" is "grey hair". Understand "margaret's dress" as dress. The description of dress is "Margaret's outfit is simple, and traditional: a plaid skirt, with a shawl on top.". Understand "margaret's skirt" and "plaid" and "plaid skirt" as skirt. Understand "margaret's shawl" as shawl. Understand "margaret's grey hair" and "grey hair" and "hair" as Margaret's hair. The description of Margaret's hair is "Pulled back in a bun, Margaret's hair is greying.".

Euphemia Elliot is a woman in the Great Hall East. Printed name of Euphemia Elliot is "Euphemia Elliot". The description of Euphemia Elliot is "The murdered man's daughter is in her early twenties, of medium height, with long, dark hair. She looks around her nervously, though given what she has been through you are hardly surprised.". Understand "euphemia" and "elliot" as Euphemia Elliot. Euphemia's hair is scenery and part of Euphemia Elliot. The description of Euphemia's hair is "Euphemia Elliot has long, dark hair. Very striking.". Understand "hair" and "dark hair" and "long hair" as Euphemia's hair. The printed name of Euphemia's hair" is "dark hair".

Walter Scott is a man in the Great Hall North. Printed name of Walter Scott is "Walter Scott of Harden". The description of Walter Scott is "Walter Scott of Harden is a large, intimidating figure, penetrating in his gaze, suggesting a sharp intelligence. He must be aged about 50, and wears some of his battle scars, but is still a forceful presence.". Understand "walter" and "scott" and "harden" as Walter Scott. Some scars are scenery and part of Walter Scott. The description of the scars is "Walter Scott of Harden has a number of scars visible on his face, and you are sure he bears the legacy of other wounds elsewhere.". Understand "walter's scars" and "battle scars" and "walter's battle scars" as scars.

James Douglas is a man in the Great Hall North [S-E]. Printed name of James Douglas is "James Douglas of Drumlanrig". The description of James Douglas is "James Douglas is head of the Drumlanrig branch of your family, since the early death of his father William some years ago. He is young, aged about thirty, and tall with fair hair.". Understand "james" and "douglas" and "drumlanrig" as James Douglas. Some fair hair is scenery and part of James Douglas. Understand "james's hair" and "james's fair hair" as fair hair.

Simon Armstrong is a man in the Great Hall South. Printed name of Simon Armstrong is "Simon Armstrong of Castlecleugh". The description of Simon Armstrong is "Probably in his early forties, Simon Armstrong is of modest height and slight build, with short, greying hair. You know little of him, beyond that he is a small laird in this area.". Understand "simon" and "armstrong" and "castlecleugh" as Simon Armstrong. Simon's hair is scenery and part of Simon Armstrong. Understand "hair" and "greying hair" and "short hair" as Simon's hair. The printed name of Simon's hair" is "greying hair".

John Logan is a man in the Great Hall South. Printed name of John Logan is "John Logan". The description of John Logan is "You have known John Logan for as long as you can remember. The old man has been your father's scribe for many years. He has also taught you much since your childhood. In his sixties now, John[apostrophe]s age is showing, but he still has a sharp and perceptive mind.". Understand "john" and "logan" and "scribe" as John Logan.

The rogue is a man. Printed name of rogue is "rogue". The description of rogue is "It is hard to make out much detail of the mysterious man in the dim light by the bonfire, but he seems to be of middling build and height, with dark hair, and possibly a scar down the side of his face. You do not recognise him as someone you know." Understand "jack" and "villain" and "man" as rogue. The rogue's hair and the rogue's face are scenery and part of the rogue. Understand "hair" and "dark hair" as rogue's hair. Understand "scar" and "rogue's scar" and "side of face" and "side" as rogue's face. The description of the rogue's face is "The man's face is cruel and twisted, and you think a scar runs down the side of it.".

Instead of attacking rogue:
	say "As you start to move the man shouts fiercely 'Stay still, Warden's whelp, unless you want me to slit your father's throat right now!' Aghast, you stay where you are.".

[add more interactions?]

[To decide whether the subject is (x - a topic):
	let the former-noun be the noun;
	if the topic understood matches x:
		now the noun is the former-noun;
		decide yes;
	otherwise:
		now the noun is the former-noun;
		decide no.]

The conversation of Archibald Douglas is the Table of Archibald Douglas's Chatter.

Table of Archibald Douglas's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"Your father doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"summary default"	a number
"letter/scrap/paper/note"	"Your father doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"he does not understand what you are asking"	--
"crime/crimes/murder/body/case/archie"	"'The murder was brutal. Elliot was killed outside his house, his throat slashed from side to side, and his body mutilated. No-one deserves that, and it has justifiably outraged his family.'"	"Archie Elliot was murdered outside his house, his throat slashed from side to side, and his body mutilated"	--
"elliot/elliots/garrelhope/widow"	"'Archie Elliot was a minor member of that notorious clan,' says your father, 'but his murder has angered all of them. He leaves a young widow and bairns, and an entire clan to mourn him, and, more worryingly, to avenge his death.'"	"Archie Elliot left a widow and children, and all the Elliots are angered by this murder, and want vengeance"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'Of course the Scotts are old enemies of the Elliots,' says your father. 'But I do not believe even they would have sanctioned this murder, at least not intentionally. Perhaps a rogue Scott acted on his own, or maybe it was done by a quite different hand. You must find out the truth.'"	"he does not believe the Scotts sanctioned this murder, unless it was a rogue Scott acting on their own"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'The Armstrongs are another notorious Border clan,' says your father grimly. 'Though I do not believe the Armstrongs bear ill will towards the Elliots.'"	"the Armstrongs are notorious, but he does not think they were to blame"	--
"douglas/douglases"	"'We are a strong clan,' says your father. 'Though this area isn't our traditional stronghold.'"	"this area is not traditional Douglas territory"	--
"castle/hermitage"	"'This is a good base for me to control the area,' says your father firmly. 'It is also fortunate that scribe Logan encouraged me to come here just now when needed. Though I think your step-mother does not like the standards of comfort so much!'"	"Hermitage is a good base for him, but your step-mother likes the castle little. Also scribe Logan encouraged him to come here this time"	--
"suspect/suspects"	"'I have no idea who did it,' says your father sadly. 'The Scotts are the obvious candidates, but I don't think they did it. But I don't know who else would have committed this deed.'"	"he has no idea who committed the murder, but does not think it was the Scotts"	--
"cook"	"'The cook?' says your father, puzzled. 'I don't know anything about him except that his food is just about edible!'"	"he knows nothing about the cook"	--
"maid/molly"	"'No, I don't think I have ever noticed the maid. Is she important?'"	"he has not noticed the maid"	--
"scribe/logan/john"	"'John Logan is a good man, and has been with our family for many years,' says your father. 'He was also good to you when you were young. Of course he is the reason we are here now, having reminded me of my duty to solve this crime.'"	"John Logan is a good man, and has been with your family for many years. He encouraged your father to come to Hermitage this time"	--
"mother/step-mother/elizabeth/countess"	"'Your step-mother agreed to come here this time,' says your father, 'though I think she little likes the castle's standards of accommodation.'"	"your step-mother is here, though little keen on the castle's accommodation"	--
"brother/george"	"'It is certainly good to have both my boys here!' says your father, smiling broadly. 'George, like you, has always been a great support to me.'"	"George has always been a great support to him, and he is pleased to have both his sons with him"	--
"sister/mariot"	"'She is a sweet thing,' says your father, smiling warmly. 'Though I often think too fair a flower to be in a setting such as this.'"	"Mariot is a sweet thing"	--

The conversation of Robert Elliot is the Table of Robert Elliot's Chatter.

Table of Robert Elliot's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"The keeper looks up at you quizzically. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"summary default"	a number
"letter/scrap/paper/note"	"The keeper doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"he does not understand what you are asking"	--
"father/warden/earl/angus"	"'Your father, young master?' replies the keeper. 'But of course, he is a good man, and well trusted in these wild parts.'"	"your father is well trusted in these parts"	--
"crime/crimes/murder/body/case/archie"	"'I have seen some terrible things in my day, but few as shocking as the state that body was in.' Robert shakes his head with disgust. 'I hope never to see its like again, as long as I live.'"	"he hopes never again to see anything as shocking as he saw that day"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'Well, of course I am an Elliot, young sir. The family has a reputation, yes I admit it. But we are honest, and fair. I do not believe the poor murdered man deserved what happened to him. Nor do his family.'"	"the Elliots have a reputation, yes, but they are honest and fair. The murdered man did not deserve this"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'The Scotts, sir? We Elliots bear them no great love, but I have learned to treat them with respect. Though I know the poor man's widow is sure they were behind this. I am not so sure.'"	"he is less sure than the murdered man's widow that the Scotts were behind this crime"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'The Armstrongs, young sir?' says Robert, questioningly. 'Of course they are another strong family around these parts. Indeed they are good friends to the Elliots.'"	"the Armstrongs are another strong local family and good friends to the Elliots"	--
"douglas/douglases"	"'The Douglas family you say?' says Robert. 'Well of course they are a powerful Border family, and your father is well respected here. He's a fine choice for Warden.'"	"the Douglases are a powerful Border family and your father is well respected here"	--
"castle/hermitage"	"'The castle here, young sir?' says Robert. 'It is a strong fortress, to be sure. Though we need that in these lands. But, yes, it is a good base for your father when here. Though I was surprised to see him come so quickly this time.'"	"Hermitage Castle is a strong fortress and a good base for your father"	--
"suspect/suspects"	"'I don't know ...' says Robert, doubtfully. 'Some of the Elliots - my kinfolk of course - blame the Scotts. But I have found no evidence to link them to it, even if I wonder ...' His voice trails off, and he looks thoughtfully in the distance, unsure how much more he should say."	"he has found no evidence to link the Scotts to crime, though his Elliot kinfolk do not agree"	--
"cook"	"'The cook?' says Robert. 'His name is Archibald Smibert. He is a somewhat grumpy man, but cooks good food.'"	"the cook is Archibald Smibert"	--
"maid/molly"	"'Molly?' asks the keeper. 'She is a local girl, an Armstrong. A good worker.'"	"the maid is a local girl: Molly Armstrong"	--

The conversation of Chief Guard is the Table of Chief Guard's Chatter.

Table of Chief Guard's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"The chief guard looks puzzled. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"summary default"	a number
"letter/scrap/paper/note"	"The chief guard doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"he does not understand what you are asking"	--
"father/warden/earl/angus"	"'We see your father here a lot, sir,' says the guard, smiling. 'He seems like a good man.'"	"your father is often at Hermitage, and seems like a good man"	--
"crime/crimes/murder/case/lights/sounds/bonfire"	"'It was eerie, sir,' says the guard. 'I remember looking out from the castle, and seeing strange lights and hearing odd sounds in the fog swirling around. It was unearthly.' He shakes his head, unsure how to continue. 'I have seen many things in my time, but this felt ... well, if you will forgive me, supernatural. It was probably just a bonfire. And then the murder happened.'"	"he saw strange lights and heard odd sounds on the night of the murder. It was probably a bonfire, but almost felt supernatural"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'I know many of the Elliots, who live near here,' says the guard thoughtfully. 'They are good people.'"	"he knows many of the Elliots who live nearby"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'I do not know the Scotts myself,' says the guard, 'though the rumour is they are to blame.'"	"he does not know the Scotts himself"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'The Armstrongs are a close-knit bunch,' muses the guard. 'A tough lot, yes.'"	"the Armstrongs are a close-knit tough bunch"	--
"douglas/douglases"	"'Your family are a strong clan,' says the guard. 'And your father is well trusted here in the castle.'"	"the Douglases are a strong clan, and your father well regarded in the castle"	--
"castle/hermitage"	"'This is a fierce place,' says the guard. 'But it does what is needed, to keep the peace.'"	"the castle is fierce, but needed to keep the peace"	--

The conversation of Cook is the Table of Cook's Chatter.

Table of Cook's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"The cook grunts at you, obviously busy and unhappy to be disturbed. 'Yes?' he says, reluctantly."	"summary default"	a number
"letter/scrap/paper/note"	"The cook doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"he does not understand what you are asking"	--
"maid/molly"	"'Molly?' says the cook, raising an eyebrow. 'Oh she is a good girl. One of the Armstrongs admittedly, but a hard worker, and a kind soul.'"	"the maid Molly is an Armstrong, but a hard worker"	--
"father/warden/earl/angus"	"'Your father is firm but just,' he says. 'I have no complaints about him.'"	"your father is firm but just, and the cook has no complaints about him"	--
"crime/crimes/murder/case"	"'I know little of it, beyond rumour and gossip,' he says. 'But I know that it means I have more work to do today, with all these mouths to feed.'"	"he knows nothing of the murder, but has many here to cook for today"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'The Elliots are a tough bunch, hard as nails, young master,' says the cook. 'Many of them live around this area.'"	"the Elliots are a tough bunch and many live around the castle area"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'The rumour is they did it,' says the cook thoughtfully. 'Perhaps they did, perhaps not.'"	"rumours blame the Scotts, but he is unsure"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"Glancing at Molly for a moment, the cook pauses, before saying 'Beware the Armstrongs, sir.' He looks towards Molly again. 'They are a cunning lot.'"	"you should beware the Armstrongs, who are a cunning lot"	--
"douglas/douglases"	"'I know little of your family,' says the cook."	"he knows little of your family"	--
"castle/hermitage"	"'I have worked here since a boy,' says the cook firmly. 'It is a tough life, but I am happy.'"	"he has worked in the castle since he was a boy"	--

The conversation of Castle maid is the Table of Castle Maid's Chatter.

Table of Castle Maid's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"'Oh I know nothing about that sir,' she replies. Perhaps you should ask her about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"summary default"	a number
"letter/scrap/paper/note"	"The maid doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask her about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"she does not understand what you are asking"	--
"father/warden/earl/angus"	"'Your father is a good man, I know,' she says, smiling. 'But I do hear mutterings against him at times. I fear for him, I do.'"	"your father is a good man but she hears mutterings against him"	--
"crime/crimes/murder/case/howls/wolves"	"'I was in the castle on the night of the murder,' says Molly. 'I remember that it was a wild night. There were strange howls outside - I wondered if wolves might be astir.'"	"she heard howls outside on the night of the murder, perhaps wolves"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'They are my relatives, sir,' she says, clearly reluctantly. 'I am an Armstrong, and my mother is one of the Elliots. But I know little about what happened.'"	"she is an Armstrong, and the Elliots are her relatives, on her mother's side"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'Those monsters!' the maid says. 'I have no time for the Scotts at all. I am sure they committed the deed.'"	"she is sure the Scotts committed the murder"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'Yes I am an Armstrong, sir,' says Molly. 'Though I cannot believe any of my family did this.'"	"she is an Armstrong and cannot believe any of her family did this"	--
"cook"	"The castle maid looks anxiously over at the cook. 'The cook sir? Oh I could say nothing about that.'"	"she can say nothing about the cook"	--
"castle/hermitage"	"'I have known this castle since I was a bairn,' says the maid. 'It used to scare me, but now I feel safe here.'"	"she has known the castle since childhood, and feels safe here"	--

The conversation of Step-mother is the Table of Step-mother's Chatter.

Table of Step-mother's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"Your step-mother smiles at you, but looks confused. Perhaps you should ask her something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"summary default"	a number
"letter/scrap/paper/note"	"Your step-mother doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask her about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"she does not understand what you are asking"	--
"father/warden/earl/angus/douglas/douglases"	"'Well of course your father is a good man, and I love him dearly,' says your step mother. 'Though I am less sure how well the people of these wild Debatable Lands regard him or the Douglases in general.'"	"she loves your father dearly but is less sure how he is regarded in this area, or the Douglases in general"	--
"crime/crimes/murder/case"	"'It's a shocking business,' sighs your step-mother. 'Your father has only told me some of it, but what he has said made me shudder.'"	"the murder is a shocking business"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"Your step-mother sighs. 'The Border clans seem a law unto themselves, especially the Elliots. I wonder why your father tries to keep control. I doubt it is appreciated.'"	"she doubts that your father's efforts to keep order are appreciated by clans like the Elliots"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'The Scotts are one of the better Border clans,' says your step-mother, 'though that is not saying much.'"	"she thinks the Scotts are one of the better Border clans"	--
"castle/hermitage"	"'Hermitage Castle?' says your step-mother, questioningly. 'It scares me to be honest. So sombre, so glooming, surrounded by a wild, lawless land.'"	"Hermitage Castle scares her"	--
"cook"	"'His food is poor, but just about edible,' says your step-mother, dismissively. 'He would not be *my* choice of cook, that much is for sure.'"	"the cook's food is just about edible, and she would not have chosen him"	--
"maid/molly"	"'She seems a good lass,' says your step-mother, speaking about the maid. 'Kind and attentive. She is an Elliot I think, so I presume from around these parts.'"	"the maid seems a good lass, an Elliot your step-mother thinks, so presumably local to here"	--
"brother/george"	"'George is a fine young man, as indeed you are too Walter,' says your step-mother, smiling kindly."	"George is a fine young man, as are you"	--
"sister/mariot"	"'Your sister is very fond of you,' says your step-mother. 'I am glad that you are there to support her.'"	"Mariot is very fond of you"	--

The conversation of Brother is the Table of Brother's Chatter.

Table of Brother's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"George glances at you, but clearly did not understand what you said. Try something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"summary default"	a number
"letter/scrap/paper/note"	"Your brother doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"he does not understand what you are asking"	--
"father/warden/earl/angus"	"'Father is shocked by what has happened,' says George, grimly. 'I do hope you can help solve the mystery Walter.'"	"your father is shocked by what has happened, and you must help him"	--
"crime/crimes/murder/case"	"'I don't know the full story,' says George. 'Father has kept much of the detail from me. But what little I know is shocking, and disturbing.'"	"he knows little of the crime, your father having kept much of the detail from him"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'Of course we Douglases are a rough lot at times,' says your brother wryly. 'But the Elliots are in a different league of roughness. But still no man deserved this.'"	"the Elliots are in a different league, but no man deserved this"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'Well we Douglases are hardly fond of the Scotts,' says your brother. 'But I still find it hard to believe they would have done this. Why?'"	"he finds it hard to believe the Scotts did this, even if as a family the Douglases are little fond of the Scotts"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'Armstrongs and Elliots!' says your brother grimly. 'What a bunch of rogues! Though I don't think the Armstrongs had a hand in this.'"	"the Armstrongs and Elliots are a bunch of rogues, but he does not think the Armstrongs did this"	--
"douglas/douglases"	"'The Douglases Walter?' says George. 'Of course we had nothing to do with this, but it's up to father to solve the problem, as usual.'"	"of course the Douglases had nothing to do with this, even if your father is left to solve the problem as usual"	--
"castle/hermitage"	"'This is a stern place is it not?' says your brother, looking around. 'I do wonder at times why father favours it so. Personally I would rather be anywhere but here.'"	"he does not like this place, and would rather be anywhere else"	--
"scribe/logan/john"	"'Our old tutor?' says George, questioningly. 'He is a wise man, and sees much that the rest of us sometimes miss. Perhaps you should ask him what he thinks about the case.'"	"your tutor is a wise man, and sees much that others miss"	--
"mother/step-mother/elizabeth/countess"	"'Mother is a great support to our father,' says George. 'I am glad that they have each other."	"your step-mother is a great support to your father"	--
"sister/mariot"	"'The baby of the family, certainly,' laughs George. 'Probably the best and kindest of us too.'"	"Mariot is the baby of the family, and probably the best and kindest of us all"	--

The conversation of Sister is the Table of Sister's Chatter.

Table of Sister's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"'What is that Walter? I don't think I know about that.' Perhaps you should ask her about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"summary default"	a number
"letter/scrap/paper/note"	"Your sister doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask her about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"she does not understand what you are asking"	--
"father/warden/earl/angus"	"'He seems worried, Walter,' says Mariot. 'Help him solve this mystery please.'"	"your father seems worried, and you must help him"	--
"crime/crimes/murder/case"	"'Father wouldn't tell me any details about what happened,' says Mariot. 'To be honest I'm rather glad. I don't think I want to know more.'"	"father wouldn't tell her any details about the crime, and she doesn't want to know"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'I don't know any of the Elliots,' says Mariot, musing for a moment. 'But they are a powerful clan here.'"	"she doesn't know any Elliots, and that they are a powerful clan here"	--
"douglas/douglases"	"'Our family?' says Mariot, looking puzzled. 'Well you know more of our history than me, I[apostrophe]m sure.'"	"you know more of the Douglas family history than she does"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'I've met a few Scotts, they seem nice enough,' muses Mariot. 'But they have such a reputation, well at least among us Douglases.'"	"the Scotts she's met seem nice enough, but they do have a reputation, at least among us Douglases"	--
"castle/hermitage"	"'We've been coming here to Hermitage regularly since I was young,' says Mariot, 'but I've never grown to like the place. There is something ... unnerving about the castle, never mind the people and lands lurking outside.'"	"she has been coming to the castle regularly since childhood, but finds it an unnerving place, never mind the people and lands outside"	--
"maid/molly"	"'Molly?' asks Mariot, looking puzzled. 'Why do you ask about her? She seems a good worker, kind, attentive, always ready to help me. You don't think she could have anything to do with the crime I hope. Surely not!'"	"Molly is a good worker and always kind and attentive to her. Surely she had nothing to do with the crime"	--
"mother/step-mother/elizabeth/countess"	"'I fear mother wishes we had not come here,' says Mariot. 'Though I know father relies on her.'"	"she fears that your step-mother would rather not have come here, though your father relies on her"	--
"brother/george"	"Mariot grins. 'I am lucky to have you two as my brothers, even if you do tease me.'"	"she feels lucky to have you both as her brothers, even if you do tease her"	--

The conversation of Simon Armstrong is the Table of Simon Armstrong's Chatter.

Table of Simon Armstrong's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"Simon Armstrong looks puzzled. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"summary default"	a number
"letter/scrap/paper/note"	"Simon Armstrong doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"he does not understand what you are asking"	--
"father/warden/earl/angus"	"Simon Armstrong looks unsure what to say. 'The Warden will do the right thing, I suppose,' he says, somewhat reluctantly. For a moment he glances sideways at scribe Logan, then looks away, and says no more."	"that he supposes the Warden will do the right thing, though he seems rather reluctant about this"	--
"crime/crimes/murder/body/case/archie"	"'It was a grim sight,' says Simon Armstrong, shuddering at the memory. He seems about to say more, and then turns slightly away, seemingly overcome by the memory of what he saw then."	"it was a grim sight, and he shudders at the memory. Though you get the feeling he isn't telling the full story"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'The Elliots are a tough bunch,' says Simon Armstrong of Castlecleugh. 'We Armstrongs have not always seen eye to eye with them, that is true. But this ...'"	"the Armstrongs and Elliots have not always seen eye to eye"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'The Elliots are blaming the Scotts,' says Simon Armstrong. 'They may be right for all I know.'"	"the Elliots are blaming the Scotts, and they may be right to do so"	--
"douglas/douglases"	"'Your family are a proud race,' says Simon Armstrong. 'Though maybe they think too highly of themselves at times.'"	"your family are a proud race, though maybe they think too highly of themselves"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'My family has a tough reputation,' says Simon Armstrong. 'But generally we get on with the Elliots. It is other families, like the Scotts, we have problems with.'"	"his family generally gets on well with the Elliots, though the Scotts are a different story"	--
"castle/hermitage"	"'Look at all the people gathered here in the castle,' says Simon Armstrong, gesturing around him. '[apostrophe]Tis a measure of the shock of this crime, and also a wish to see justice done.'"	"such a large gathering in this castle is a measure of the shock of the crime combined with a wish for justice"	--
"maid/molly"	"'Molly Armstrong?' says Simon. 'Yes, she is my relative.'"	"the castle maid is his relative, Molly Armstrong"	--
"scribe/logan/john"	"'Scribe Logan?' says Simon Armstrong, looking to the man standing beside him. 'Yes I know him a little.'"	"he knows scribe Logan a little"	--

[The conversation of Walter Armstrong is the Table of Walter Armstrong's Chatter.

Table of Walter Armstrong's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"Walter Armstrong looks puzzled. Perhaps you should ask him about something else."	"summary default"	a number
"crime/crimes/murder"	"'Tis a grim business indeed,' says Walter Armstrong, shaking his head. 'We are used to evil doings, but this was beyond the pale.'"	"Crime!!"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'The Elliots did not deserve this,' says Walter. 'I doubt you would find anyone locally who would say otherwise.'"	"Elliots!!"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'I don't know …' says Walter Armstrong, doubtfully. 'Perhaps the rumours about the Scotts are true.'"	"Scotts!!"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'We Armstrongs are a tough bunch, but fair,' says Walter Armstrong. 'I do not think we had any part in this.'"	"Armstrongs!!"	--
"maid/molly"	"'Molly Armstrong?' says Walter. 'Yes, she is my relative.'"	"Maid!!"	--]
[maybe reuse "Perhaps the rumours about the Scotts are true." for another NPC?]

The conversation of Margaret Elliot is the Table of Margaret Elliot's Chatter.

Table of Margaret Elliot's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"Margaret Elliot looks puzzled. Perhaps you should ask her about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"summary default"	a number
"letter/scrap/paper/note"	"Margaret Elliot doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask her about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"she does not understand what you are asking"	--
"father/warden/earl/justice/angus"	"'I trust the Warden to seek the truth and justice,' she says. 'But I fear the Scotts - curse their name! - will try to pull the wool over his eyes. You must make sure that does not happen. Please?!' She reaches out and holds your hand, looking imploringly into your eyes. 'Forgive me, young master, but this is hard for us.'"	"she trusts the Warden, but fears the Scotts will try to pull the wool over his eyes"	--
"crime/crimes/murder/body/case/archie"	"'My Archie did not deserve to go like that!' she says to you, almost sobbing. 'Those accursed Scotts ... They must pay the price!'"	"her husband did not deserve this, and she blames the Scotts"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'We Elliots are a proud people, who stand together in times of trouble. Now we need the Warden and his men to protect us. Will you?'"	"the Elliots will stand together and they need the Warden to protect them"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'They did it! The Scotts! May they burn in Hell! They must be brought to justice, never to do this to anyone again.' Margaret shakes her head fiercely, the anger evident in every part of her."	"the Scotts did it, and must be brought to justice"	--
"douglas/douglases"	"'I have had little dealings with the Douglases,' says Margaret Elliot slowly. 'Though I have seen your father here before.'"	"she has had little dealings with the Douglases, but has seen your father here before"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'The Armstrongs have been sympathetic,' says Margaret Elliot sadly. 'The two families get on well. Though my husband did disagree with some before he died.'"	"the Armstrongs have been sympathetic, though her husband disagreed with some of them before his death"	--
"maid/molly"	"'Molly the castle maid?' she asks. 'Yes she is my cousin. She is a good girl, and kind to her kinfolk.'"	"the maid is her cousin, and a good girl"	--

[The conversation of John Elliot is the Table of John Elliot's Chatter.

Table of John Elliot's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"John Elliot looks puzzled. Perhaps you should ask him about something else."	"summary default"	a number
"father/warden"	"'The Warden has always treated us well,' says John Elliot. 'He does not have the attitude that some high heid yins do to the clans in these Debateable Lands. But can he find the killer - I am not so sure ...'"	"Warden!!"	--
"crime/crimes/murder"	"'Find who did it young sir,' says John Elliot. 'Or we will find the killer ourselves and take our own revenge!'"	"Crime!!"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'The clan is standing together beside us,' says John Elliot. 'An attack on one Elliot is an attack on us all. If we do not see justice ... well I fear what might happen.'"	"Elliots!!"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'My mother is sure it was the Scotts who butchered my father,' says John sadly. 'I am not so convinced, but whoever did it needs to be caught.'"	"Scotts!!"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'The Armstrongs are our allies,' says John Elliot. 'Walter Armstrong younger of Castlecleugh is one of my closest friends. They want to see justice nearly as much as we do.'"	"Armstrongs!!"	--
"maid/molly"	"'I don't know Molly well says John, 'but she is a cousin, I know that much.'"	"Maid!!"	--]

The conversation of Euphemia Elliot is the Table of Euphemia Elliot's Chatter.

Table of Euphemia Elliot's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"Euphemia Elliot looks puzzled. Perhaps you should ask her about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"summary default"	a number
"letter/scrap/paper/note"	"Euphemia Elliot doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask her about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"she does not understand what you are asking"	--
"father/warden"	"'The Warden has always treated us well,' says Euphemia Elliot tentatively. 'He does not have the attitude that some high heid yins do to the clans in these Debatable Lands. But can he find the killer - I am not so sure ...'"	"the Warden has always treated them well, but she is unsure if he will find the killer"	--
"crime/crimes/murder/case/body/archie/lights/noises"	"'I remember the night,' says Euphemia, nearly crying. 'There were strange lights outside, and noises I did not understand. And then ...' With that she collapses into tears, quite overcome and unable to say any more."	"she saw strange lights on the night of the murder, and heard noises she did not understand"	--
"douglas/douglases"	"'I know little of your family sir,' says Euphemia Elliot."	"she knows little of your family"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'The clan is standing together beside us,' says Euphemia, confidently. 'An attack on one Elliot is an attack on us all. If we do not see justice ... well I fear what might happen.'"	"the Elliots are standing together, and she fears what will happen if justice is not served"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'The Armstrongs are our friends,' says Euphemia. 'They are as shocked by what happened as we are.'"	"the Armstrongs are their friends, and are as shocked as they are"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'My mother is sure it was the Scotts who butchered my father,' says Euphemia sadly. 'I am not so convinced, but whoever did it needs to be caught.'"	"she is not as sure as her mother that the Scotts committed the crime"	--
"maid/molly"	"'Molly sir?' asks Euphemia. 'I knew her when I was younger - as girls we would often play together.'"	"she knew the maid Molly when she was younger, and they would often play together"	--

The conversation of Walter Scott is the Table of Walter Scott's Chatter.

Table of Walter Scott's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"Walter Scott looks puzzled. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"summary default"	a number
"letter/scrap/paper/note"	"Walter Scott doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"he does not understand what you are asking"	--
"father/warden/earl/angus"	"'The Warden is a wise man,' says Walter Scott. 'I have not always seen eye to eye with him, but he seems fair, and generally well respected, though not by all. I fear he does not realise those who conspire against him.'"	"he trusts your father but knows that people conspire against him"	--
"crime/crimes/murder/body/case"	"'It was a terrible crime,' says Walter Scott. 'And we had nothing to do with it, I give you my word, even if we are getting the blame.' He pauses, before continuing: 'I have been talking to James here about it. The murder struck us both as odd, strangely out of the blue, even for these parts. I can't help wonder if there is more at play than appears.'"	"the Scotts had nothing to do with the crime and he wonders what is really going on"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'The Elliots do not trust us,' says Walter Scott. 'But we mean them no harm, well nothing like this anyway. Though whether they will ever believe that I am less sure,' he says, shaking his head sadly."	"the Scotts mean the Elliots no harm, at least nothing like this"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'We Scotts are being blamed unfairly,' says Walter Scott firmly. 'There is nothing pointing to our involvement, just rumour, hearsay and slander.'"	"the Scotts are being blamed unfairly, with nothing but rumour, hearsay and slander implicating them"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'The Armstrongs are the Elliots[apostrophe] allies,' says Walter Scott. 'So of course that means they are not our friends. Lawless they may be, but unjust? No, I do not think so.'"	"the Armstrongs are the Elliots[apostrophe] allies, lawless certainly, but not unjust"	--
"douglas/douglases"	"'Your family is a strong one,' says Walter Scott. 'But the Douglases are not the only powerful family in the Borders. Remember that, young sir. I fear dark times ahead.'"	"the Douglases are not the only powerful family in the Borders, and he fears dark times ahead"	--
"castle/hermitage"	"'This must be one of the largest castles in the Borders,' says Walter Scott. 'Whoever controls it, controls a huge area. Though I do not think I would ask for that responsibility, not in a million years.'"	"Hermitage is one of the largest castles in the Borders, though not somewhere he would want to have control of"	--

[The conversation of Alexander Scott is the Table of Alexander Scott's Chatter.

Table of Alexander Scott's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"Alexander Scott looks puzzled. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"summary default"	a number
"crime/crimes/murder"	"'It was a terrible thing,' says Alexander Scott gravely. 'We Scotts had nothing to do with this.'"	"the Scotts had nothing to do with the murder"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'I have no good words to say about the Elliots,' says Alexander Scott harshly. 'But we did not do them harm here.'"	"he bears no love for the Elliots, but equally the Scotts did not do them harm here"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'We Scotts are being blamed unfairly,' says Alexander Scott firmly. 'There is nothing pointing to our involvement, just rumour, and hearsay and slander.'"	"the Scotts are being blamed unfairly, with nothing but rumour, hearsay and slander implicating them"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'I was brought up on tales of reivers and the wild Borders,' says Alexander Scott. 'Of course many of the worst tales involved the Elliots and Armstrongs - both notorious clans.'"	"the Armstrongs, like the Elliots, are a notorious clan, and feature prominently in the worst tales of Border reivers"	--]
[INCORPORATE SOME OF ABOVE INTO OTHER CHARACTERS esp the "rumour, and hearsay and slander"]

The conversation of James Douglas is the Table of James Douglas's Chatter.

Table of James Douglas's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"James Douglas looks puzzled. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"summary default"	a number
"letter/scrap/paper/note"	"James Douglas doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"he does not understand what you are asking"	--
"father/warden/earl/angus"	"'Your father is my friend, and kinsman,' says James, choosing his words carefully. 'If anyone can bring peace to this wild country, it is him. Though at what cost to himself, I do not know.'"	"your father is his friend, and one who can bring peace to this wild country, although this may come at a personal cost"	--
"crime/crimes/murder/body/case"	"'I was not here when the crime happened,' says James Douglas. 'But your father told me the details. It was a dire deed indeed. Of course he had to come here, to see justice done. I wonder ...' He looks thoughtful for a moment, then shakes his head, and says no more."	"he was not here when the crime happened, but your father told him about it, and of course your father had to come here to see justice done. James almost seems about to say something else, but then the moment passes"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'The Elliots are a tough group living in a wild land,' exclaims James Douglas loudly, looking around to see who is listening. 'They have many enemies, but I struggle to think who could have wanted this, let alone do it.'"	"the Elliots have many enemies, but he cannot think who would want this, never mind do it"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'I do not believe the Scotts did this,' says James Douglas, shaking his head vigorously. 'Yes, the family are no friends of the Elliots, but no, there must be another explanation.'"	"he does not believe that the Scotts did this"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'As God is my witness I have had many run-ins with Armstrongs over the years,' says James Douglas. 'They are a rough bunch, almost as bad as the Elliots, if not worse.'"	"the Armstrongs are a rough bunch, almost as bad as the Elliots, if not worse"	--
"douglas/douglases"	"'Our family, Walter?' says James Douglas. 'Well yes, we Douglases are powerful, though that makes enemies.'"	"the Douglases are powerful, but with enemies too"	--
"scribe/logan/john"	"'Your father relies on the scribe too much,' says James Douglas, surprising you. 'There is something about the man ... No I have said too much Walter. Ignore my suspicions, the silly thoughts of a daft and excitable man.'"	"he thinks that your father relies on the scribe too much. He does not seem to trust the man"	--
"castle/hermitage"	"'Douglases have held this castle for over a century,' says James, seemingly with some pride. 'I am glad that it is still in Douglas hands.'"	"the Douglases have held Hermitage Castle for over a century"	--

[The conversation of William Douglas is the Table of William Douglas's Chatter.

Table of William Douglas's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"William Douglas looks puzzled. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"summary default"	a number
"crime/crimes/murder"	"'My brother has told me little,' says William Douglas. 'But I have heard enough through rumours and hearsay. It sounds like it was a terrible crime.'"	"he knows little about the crime beyond rumours and hearsay"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'I have met many Elliots,' says William Douglas. 'They are a tough group indeed, and this land is a wild one because of it.'"	"the Elliots are a tough group living in a wild land"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'I have some Scott friends,' says William Douglas. 'They are a principled family. I find it hard to believe they could be involved in this crime.'"	"he finds it hard to believe the Scotts could be involved in this"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'The Armstrongs are almost as bad as the Elliots, if not worse,' says William Douglas grimly."	"the Armstrongs are almost as bad as the Elliots"	--
"douglas/douglases"	"'The Douglases?' says William, looking puzzled. 'We are a powerful clan, and there are many of us, as you know.'"	"the Douglases are a powerful and large clan"	--]
[INCORPORATE SOME OF ABOVE INTO OTHER CHARACTERS - Elliots "tough group living in a wild land" bit; also Armstrons "almost as bad as the Elliots, if not worse"]

The conversation of John Logan is the Table of John Logan's Chatter.

Table of John Logan's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"Your old tutor looks puzzled. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"summary default"	a number
"letter/scrap/paper/note"	"John Logan doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"he does not understand what you are asking"	--
"father/warden/earl/angus"	"'Your father is a good man, Walter,' says John, smiling kindly. 'You know how good he has been to me.'"	"your father is a good man who has been kind to him"	--
"crime/crimes/murder/body/case/archie"	"'I saw the body,' says John Logan, looking strangely uncomfortable. 'I do not ever want to see something like that again.'"	"he saw the body, and he seems to be uncomfortable recalling the memory"	--
"elliot/elliots"	"'The Elliots are a notorious band of outlaws,' says John Logan. 'I am sorry Walter, perhaps that is not what I should say, but it is how I feel.'"	"the Elliots are a notorious bunch of outlaws"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'The Scotts are the obvious suspects,' says John Logan. 'Though I think people may be jumping to conclusions too quickly. It is for your father to find the truth.'"	"the Scotts are the obvious suspects, though he seems to doubt their guilt"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'The Armstrongs are as infamous as the Elliots,' says John Logan, looking towards Simon Armstrong beside him. 'They do not make this an easy place to live.'"	"the Armstrongs are as infamous as the Elliots, making this a hard place to live"	--
"douglas/douglases"	"'The Douglases have been good to me, your father especially,' says John Logan. 'Though this land is a wild one, and I wonder sometimes why your father spends so much energy here.'"	"the Douglases have been kind to him, though he wonders why your father spends so much time in this wild land"	--
"castle/hermitage"	"John shuffles from foot to foot uncertainly. 'I do not like it here Walter. But your father must come here a lot, and I accompany him.'"	"he does not like Hermitage Castle, but he must accompany your father here a lot"	--

The conversation of rogue is the Table of Rogue's Chatter.

Table of Rogue's Chatter
topic	reply	summary	turn stamp
"AXXBYCCZ"	"The man ignores your question, and glares back menacingly."	"summary default"	a number
"letter/scrap/paper/note"	"The rogue doesn't respond. Perhaps you should ask him about something else. Try TOPICS for ideas."	"he does not understand what you are asking"	--
"father/warden/earl/angus"	"'Your father is a criminal who deserves to die!' says the rogue, menacingly."	"your father is a criminal and deserves to die"	--
"crime/crimes/murder/body/case"	"'Brought you all here, didn't it!' says the rogue gleefully."	"the murder brought you all here"	--
"elliot/elliots/archie"	"'It was easy to kill one of the Elliots,' says the rogue fiercely. 'Anyway there are so many of them, who would miss one!'"	"it was easy to kill one of the many Elliots"	--
"scott/scotts"	"'The Scotts? Pah!' shouts the rogue. 'And people fell for the bait!'"	"the Scotts were an irrelevant distraction"	--
"douglas/douglases"	"'Your family are a bunch of waistrels,' says the rogue angrily. 'You should be wiped out.'"	"the Douglases are a bunch of waistrels who should be wiped out"	--
"armstrong/armstrongs"	"'You should have paid more attention to the Armstrongs, young sir!' says the rogue enigmatically."	"you should have paid more attention to the Armstrongs"	--
"scribe/logan/john"	"'Your father[apostrophe]s faithful servant? If only!' laughs the man wickedly."	"he mocks the idea of your father's supposedly faithful servant"	--

Part 4 - Extra Coding

Instead of examining yourself, say "You're your usual self. Mid height, dark hair, not very imposing, unlike some members of your family. You're definitely not someone who wants to get into a fight.".

Understand "talk to [someone]" as talking. Understand "talk [someone]" as talking. Talking is an action applying to one visible thing.

Check talking:
	if the noun is:
		-- yourself: say "Talking to yourself is never a good sign. Are you feeling ok?";
		-- Archibald Douglas: say "'Ask me anything you want, my boy,' says your father, smiling gently.";
		-- Robert Elliot: say "'Hello young sir,' says Robert in a friendly way.";
		-- Cook: say "The cook grunts in response. Maybe try asking him some questions?";
		-- Castle maid: say "The maid looks up helpfully. Maybe try asking her some questions?";
		-- Step-mother: say "'Hello Walter,' says your step-mother, smiling. 'I hope you can help your father here.'";
		-- Brother: say "'Hello Walter,' says George, grinning. 'I hope that you are making some progress in this case.'";
		-- Sister: say "'Hello Walter', says your sister, obviously pleased to see you.";
		-- Margaret Elliot: say "Margaret Elliot looks up as you speak. 'Sir?' she replies, hesitatingly.";
		-- Euphemia Elliot: say "Euphemia Elliot looks awkward as you talk to her, seemingly unsure what to say.";
		-- Walter Scott: say "'Hello lad,' says Walter Scott of Harden, smiling. 'Ask anything you like, and I will see if I can help.'";
		-- James Douglas: say "James Douglas grunts, but seems pleased to see you, and waits to see if you have questions to ask.";
		-- Simon Armstrong: say "Simon Armstrong looks uncomfortable as you talk to him, but ready to answer your questions.";
		-- John Logan: say "Your old tutor smiles at seeing you, but then looks awkward, which seems strange. But his expression returns to normal, and he waits to see what you ask.";
		-- Rogue: say "The man glares back at you menacingly.";
		-- Chief Guard: say "'Sir?' says the guard, in response to your words.";
		-- otherwise: say "There is no response.".

Instead of answering somebody that something:
	try talking the noun.

Understand "kick [someone]" as kicking. Kicking is an action applying to one visible thing.

Carry out kicking: try attacking the noun.

Understand "struggle" as struggling. Understand "escape" as struggling. Struggling is an action applying to nothing.

Check struggling:
	if the player is captive:
		say "You try to free yourself, but the hands gripping you from behind tighten. 'Stay still!' says a rough voice, behind you.";
	otherwise:
		say "You wriggle from side to side, uselessly. Are you feeling ok?" instead.

Understand "ride [something]" as riding. Riding is an action applying to one visible thing.

Check riding:
	if the noun is:
		-- horses: say "You like riding well enough, but now is hardly the time and the place to be doing it." instead;
		-- otherwise: say "I didn't understand that sentence." instead.

A person has a table name called conversation. 

Instead of asking someone about something:
	let the source be the conversation of the noun;
	if topic understood is a topic listed in source:
		if there is a turn stamp entry:
			say "[The noun] has already told you that [summary entry].";
			decrement the time of day;
		otherwise:
			now turn stamp entry is the turn count;
			say "[reply entry][paragraph break]";
	otherwise:
		say "[reply in row 1 of the source][paragraph break]".

Instead of telling someone about something:
	try asking the noun about it.

Instead of asking yourself about something, say "Talking to yourself is never a good sign. Are you feeling ok?".

Instead of asking Archibald Douglas about something during the Denouement:
	say "Your father glances at you, but says nothing, too stunned to speak.".

Instead of asking John Logan about something during the Denouement:
	say "John Logan turns his head sharply to you, and glares with a look you have never seen from him before. He says nothing.".

Instead of asking Simon Armstrong about something during the Denouement:
	say "'Quiet, Warden[apostrophe]s brat!' snaps Simon Armstrong fiercely.".

Understand "use [something]" as using. Using is an action applying to one visible thing.

Check using:
	if the noun is:
		-- toilet: say "No, really, you'd rather not." instead;
		-- otherwise: say "I didn't understand that sentence." instead.

Instead of giving scrap of paper to someone:
	try asking the second noun about "letter".

Instead of showing scrap of paper to someone:
	try asking the second noun about "letter".

Instead of dropping the scrap of paper:
	say "You'd probably best hang on to this, it could be useful still.".

Instead of putting the scrap of paper on something:
	say "You'd probably best hang on to this, it could be useful still.".

Understand "about" as asking for about.

Asking for about is an action out of world.

Carry out asking for about:
	say "The real life Border Reivers were infamous in their day. Living a tough existence, they did what they had to survive, raiding, pillaging and stealing. Clan loyalties were strong, as were family ties, but there was little respect for national loyalties.
	
	You are probably already familiar with words in the English language inherited from the reivers in the Anglo-Scottish Border area. Words like bereaved and blackmail are just an echo of those troubled times.
	
	The most dangerous part of the Borderland in reiving days was Liddesdale, known as the Debatable Lands. Hermitage Castle sat in the heart of this valley, and even today its ruins are an imposing sight.
	
	To learn more about the Border Reivers the best source is George Macdonald Fraser's [italic type]The Steel Bonnets[roman type], published many years ago, but still the best written history of the subject.
	
	For thanks to playtesters etc. please use the CREDITS command."

Understand "help" or "hint" or "hints" or "about" or "info" as asking for help.

Asking for help is an action out of world.

Carry out asking for help:
	say "This is a text adventure game that responds to user input. Type commands then press enter to see what the game says in response.
	
	You can move around the world by typing things like NORTH, SOUTH, EAST, WEST, UP and DOWN.
	
	To interact with objects around you type EXAMINE and the object name, e.g. 'EXAMINE SHELF'. GET and DROP allow you to pick up and drop objects.
	
	This particular game relies largely on conversations, so try talking to the other characters to find out information. Use ASK to ask them about specific things, e.g. 'ASK FATHER ABOUT MURDER'. Use the TOPICS command if you are stuck for things to ask about and want a reminder of possible things that the characters may be willing to discuss.
	
	For more information about the game and its background try commands ABOUT and CREDITS.".
	
[This story may strike you as familiar, which means that you already have some idea of the ways it can end up.

Most of the interference available to you is in the form of speech: SAY (something) will work to bring up a new topic of conversation. You can also THINK to come up with a few topics related to the current discussion."]

[And because it is rude not to thank one's testers:]

Understand "topics" as asking for topics.

Asking for topics is an action out of world.

Carry out asking for topics:
	say "This game is largely based around information you can find out by asking people questions. Take the opportunity to quiz those present in the castle about the crime and the various families involved. To ask about a family or clan in general, ask about the family surname in plural form, so Douglases, Scotts, Armstrongs or Elliots. For instance you could try ASK WALTER SCOTT ABOUT ELLIOTS. Try asking people about other topics too, such as the murder, the body and any other clues, this castle, and about suspects. For example ASK GEORGE ABOUT CASTLE.".
	
Understand "credits" as asking for credits.

Asking for credits is an action out of world.

Carry out asking for credits:
	say "Inform 7 is the work of Graham Nelson.
	
	Many thanks to my testers for the game: Andrew Schultz, Doug Egan, Jens Leugengroot, Małgorzata Reczko, mathbrush, Nick Marsh and Victor Ojuel.".

[maybe also credit mrs ferguson here?]
 
The changed score rule is listed instead of the announce the score rule in the carry out requesting the score rules.
This is the changed score rule: 
    say "There is no score in this story. Staying alive will be a reward in itself.".

Instead of kissing the rogue, say "Not a good idea, you decide.".

Instead of kissing Archibald Douglas, say "You are fond of your father, but think better of it.".

Instead of kissing brother, say "You think better of it. George would only laugh.".

Instead of kissing step-mother, say "You give your step-mother a peck on the cheek. 'Thank you Walter,' she says, smiling.".

Instead of kissing sister, say "You lean over and kiss Mariot gently on the cheek. She laughs, pleased at your brotherly affection.".

Instead of jumping, say "You jump on the spot, but feel a fool. What were you thinking?".

Understand "pray" as praying. Praying is an action applying to nothing.

Carry out praying: say "Well you are a good Catholic, but now is hardly a good time for praying.".

Understand "sing" as singing. Singing is an action applying to nothing.

Carry out singing: say "You've been told you have a good singing voice, but on second thoughts don't think now is the time to use it.".

Understand "dance" as dancing. Dancing is an action applying to nothing.

Carry out dancing: say "Well you could dance, but this is hardly the right time for it.".

Instead of attacking someone, say "You learned as a youngster that you are not built for fighting. Best not.".

Understand "xyzzy" as xyzzying. Xyzzying is an action applying to nothing.

Carry out xyzzying: say "You feel a strange sensation for a moment, but then it passes. Best get back to the task at hand.".

Definition: a direction (called thataway) is viable if the room thataway from the location is a room.

Instead of going nowhere:
	decrement the time of day;
	if the number of viable directions is 0, say "Sorry, you can't go that way. You appear to be trapped here.";
	otherwise say "Sorry, you can't go that way. From here, you can go [list of viable directions].".