*comment "gargoyle" by simon dremel - chapter 1

*temp lorena_wounded
*set lorena_wounded false
*temp wolfgang_wounded
*set wolfgang_wounded false
*temp army_diminished
*set army_diminished false
*temp lost_army
*set lost_army false
*temp orb_broken
*set orb_broken false
*temp cursed
*set cursed false
*temp time
*set time 0
*temp army_lost
*set army_lost false

CHAPTER 1

"Hello Gargoyle", a sly voice whispers into your ear, "I will make it short, for I have not a lot of time left: In a few minutes, I will open the gate to let an army into the castle that will attack around the time you regain your ability to move. You will meet them in the courtyard, where you will face a choice: Join them in their effort to take the castle and you will be richly rewarded, or fight them and be destroyed."
*line_break
The dagger leaves your throat. You try to jerk your head around to glimpse the one who has spoken, but it is of no use. The sun's rays are still too powerful.
*page_break
After what seems to be an eternity has passed, the sun has finally vanished and you feel your strength return. You flex your muscles and the hard outer layer of your skin cracks. With an outcry, you break free and soar down towards the courtyard.
*page_break
As you watch from the air, the front gate is knocked down and a stream of black-armored soldiers pours in. They strike down the guards that rush to meet them with surprising ease.
*line_break
The gates to the inner courtyard burst open and the castle's noble guard storms out. The duke's daughter, Lorena, leads the charge, wielding a great broadsword with a gilded hilt.
*line_break
You ...
*choice
	*selectable_if (false) #... rush to Lorena's aid [NOT IMPLEMENTED YET]
		*goto attack_on_wolfgang
	#... help the attackers
		*goto attack_on_lorena
	#... wait and watch
		The sound of steel striking steel soon fills the courtyard. It does not look good for the defenders. Lorena fights bravely until the end, but she is knocked down and overwhelmed by a tall fighter with an eyepatch.
		*line_break
		You ...
		*choice
			*selectable_if (false) #... rescue Lorena from her captors
				*goto lorenas_rescue
			#... join the attackers in taking the castle
				"Aye, decided to join the fight, did ya Gargoyle?" The leader of the attacking soldiers is a tall man with greyish hair. His face would be ruggedly handsome, were it not for a scar emanating from under an eyepatch over the left eye and running down to his chin. "Well, better late than never. My name's Wolfgang and I'll be needing you to ..."
				*choice
					#Interrupt Wolfgang before he dares to order you around
						"I'll be giving the orders." You growl.
						*line_break
						Wolfgang does not even blink. " So what do we do?"
						*choice
							#Attack the Magus in the library tower while the rest of the army invades the inner castle
								*goto attack_on_the_magus
							#Go directly for the duke in the inner castle while the rest of the army takes care of the Magus
								*goto attack_on_the_duke
					#Let him finish
						"I'll be needing you to either lead the charge against the inner castle or take care of the Magus while the rest of the army captures the duke."
						*choice
							#Attack the duke in the inner castle
								*goto attack_on_the_duke
							#Attack the Magus in the library tower
								*goto attack_on_the_magus

*label lorenas_rescue
You plunge down into the court yard, cool night air rushing past your ears. The guard does not know what hit them. As you soar up again, two of them lie dead on the ground. As you turn around for another attack run, you see that Lorena has freed herself and is fighting two of the other soldiers. The remainder of the noble guard rushes to help her.
*if flying_dive = false
	*line_break
	You learn a new maneuver: Dive.
	*set flying_dive true
*page_break
*goto attack_on_wolfgang
								
*label attack_on_wolfgang
*if lorena_lover
	As you touch down next to Lorena, she throws a kiss at you and winks.
	*line_break
	*goto attack_on_wolfgang1
*elseif lorena_friend
	As you touch down next to Lorena, she smiles at you broadly.
	*line_break
	You ...
	*choice
		#... wave at her.
			*goto attack_on_wolfgang1
		#... throw a kiss at her.
			Her cheeks redden and Lorena looks away, but she cannot quite hide a happy smile.
			*set lorena_lover true
			*goto attack_on_wolfgang1
		#... ignore her.
			*goto attack_on_wolfgang1
*else
	*goto attack_on_wolfgang1

*label attack_on_wolfgang1
Together with the noble guard, you rush to meet the attackers. Two of the enemy soldiers engage you. They appear well-trained and determined to finish you off. Out of the corner of your eye you see Lorena being attacked by a large brute with a double-edged axe.
*line_break
You ...
*choice
	#... rush to help Lorena
		With a quick jump, you are at the side of the duke's daughter, but your attackers pursue you. Lorena and you are backed against a wall, facing the three enemy soldiers. There is no way out - you have to fight.
		*choice
			#Charge blindly into the attackers
				You take aim at the biggest of the three soldiers and charge. He hesitates just for the fraction of a second, but it is enough for you to knock him to the ground.
				*line_break
				With savage strength, you snap his neck and he slumps to the ground, just as somehting sharp buries itself into your back. With a howl of pain, you turn around and strike blindly at your attacker, who is thrown against a wall. An ugly cracking sound signals the end of his life.
				*page_break
				You turn your head just in time to see Lorena run the third of the soldiers through with her sword. She seems unharmed, but blood is gushing down your back and every move is agony.
				*line_break
				You lose 20 Hitpoints.
				*set health - 20
				*if health <= 0
					*goto death
				*page_break
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
			*if (wrestle) #Combat move: Wrestle
				Which of the enemy fighters do you want to wrestle?
				*choice
					#The large one
						*if strength > 30
							You throw yourself at the largest of the attackers. He tries to bring up his axe, but he isn't fast enough. With an iron grip, you pin him to the ground, then dig your teeth into an exposed part of his neck. He screams in agony as you tear out his jugular.
							*line_break
							Getting up, you see Lorena running her sword through one of the remaining attackers. The other is lying on the ground, five feet away from his head. A large and bleeding cut runs over Lorenas shoulder where her armor failed to protect it, but she seems to ignore the pain.
							*page_break
							*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
						*else
							You throw yourself at the largest of the attackers and try to pin him down, but he is a strong man. With a great effort, he manages to shake you off and bring up his axe. Before you can react, its blade buries itself into your shoulder.
							*line_break
							You lose 20 Hitpoints.
							*set health - 20
							*if health <= 0
								*goto death
							*line_break
							You scream in agony, but the pain gives you strength. With a mighty blow you send your opponent flying to the ground, clutching a hole in the front of his armor. Jumping onto his chest, you kill him with a second strike.
							*page_break
							Getting up, you see Lorena running her sword through one of the remaining attackers. The other is lying on the ground, five feet away from his head. A large and bleeding cut runs over Lorenas shoulder where her armor failed to protect it, but she seems to ignore the pain.
							*page_break
							*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
					#One of the smaller ones
						*if strength > 20
							You easily manage to wrestle one of the smaller attackers to the ground. His neck gives a crack like a dry twig as you snap it. With considerable force, you manage to hurl the body at the other attacker, who is knocked to the ground and promptly killed by Lorena's fast blade.
							*line_break
							Together, you face the last attacker, who decides that his best chances for survival lie in a fast retreat.
							*page_break
							*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
						*else
							You try to pin the fighter to the ground, but he manages to wrestle you down instead. You scream in agony as he cuts your shoulder with a dagger, but the pain gives you enough strength to wriggle free of his grip and snap his neck.
							*line_break
							You lose 15 Hitpoints.
							*set health - 15
							*if health <= 0
								*goto death
							*line_break
							Jumping to your feet, you see Lorena fighting the largest of the attackers. The third soldier is lying dead at her feet, but a large and bleeding cut runs over her shoulder where the armor failed to protect it. You quickly rush to help her and together you manage to defeat the last opponent.
							*page_break
							*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
			*if (flurry) #Combat move: Flurry
				You swing your ${Weapon} in a flittering arc and advance, forcing the attackers to give up their ground step by step. As you bring the ${Weapon} around and thrust it at one of the soldiers, Lorena jumps forward and runs her sword through one of the others.
				*line_break
				With two of his companions dead in a matter of seconds, the third attacker decides it is time for a fast retreat.
				*page_break
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
			*if (tailswipe) #Combat move: Tailswipe
				You let the attackers come as close as you dare, then whirl around and bring your tail up. The two soldiers that went after you are sent flying to the ground, but the large brute manages to deflect your attack.
				*line_break
				Lorena charges at him, but her stance is imbalanced - a weakness the well-trained invader is quick to exploit by tripping her with the hilt of his axe. You rush to help her, but Lorena seems to have expected this move. She uses the momentum from her fall to roll past the attacker, then comes to her feet and plunges her sword into his back.
				*line_break
				You charge at the other attackers, but they decide it is time for a fast retreat.
				*page_break
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
			*if (spell_death > 0) #Spell: Bestow Harm
				You wander the path towards darkness.
				*set darkness %+ 5
				*line_break
				You mutter the ancient incantations and the largest of the attackers drops to his knees, letting out a loud howl of agony. The other soldiers hesitate and Lorena charges forward, killing one and wounding the other with a single swipe of her broadsword.
				*line_break
				The surviving soldier makes a hasty retreat as Lorena uses her sword's hilt to knock unconcious the attacker you cursed with your black magic.
				*page_break
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
			*if (spell_death > 1) #Spell: Absorb Vigor
				You wander the path towards darkness.
				*set darkness %+ 10
				*line_break
				You concentrate on the life force of the enemy soldiers, then draw it towards you. Black Tentacles appear to spring from your fingers and envelop the attackers. You feel their strength dwindling. Two drop to the ground immediately, unconcious and out of the fight. The last one falls down to one knee and tries to bring up his axe to defend himself, but he is too weak and Lorena knocks him out with the hilt of her broadsword.
				*page_break
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
			*if (spell_dragon > 1) #Spell: Fury
				You call on a splinter of rage inside your soul and expand it, bringing its energy to the outside world and letting it consume your mind. The fury infects Lorena, too. You are one in your hatred for the attackers and you move as one. With incredible speed and strength, and no regard for your own safety, the two of you propel yourselves forward to meet the attackers.
				*page_break
				As the rage subsides, the enemy soldiers lie at your feet in a mangled heep. Although you could swear they had no time to defend themselves, symmetric scars cover your chest, forming a pattern that looks almost like teeth.
				*line_break
				Lorena's armor appears to be undamaged, but a small trickle of blood is seeping out of the chainlinks.
				*line_break
				You lose 10 Hitpoints.
				*set health - 10
				*page_break
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
	#... defend yourself
		Lorena will probably manage on her own.
		*line_break
		You turn your attention to your attackers and decide how to engage them.
		*choice
			#Charge at them blindly
				You throw yourself at the soldiers, meeting their ready swords. Agonizing pain rushes through your body as the blades cut you and gives you extra strength. With a savage blow, you kill one of the soldiers, then throw the other one to the ground and snap his neck.
				*line_break
				You lose 20 Hitpoints.
				*set health - 20
				*if health <= 0
					*goto death
				*line_break
				Getting up, you see Lorena running her sword through the remaining attacker. A large and bleeding cut runs over her shoulder where the armor failed to protect it, but she seems to ignore the pain.
				*set lorena_wounded true
				*page_break
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
			*if (wrestle) #Combat move: Wrestle
				*if strength > 20
					You easily manage to wrestle one of the attackers to the ground. His neck gives a crack like a dry twig as you snap it. With considerable force, you manage to hurl the body at the other attacker, who is knocked to the ground and promptly killed by Lorena's fast blade.
					*line_break
					Together, you face the last attacker, who decides that his best chances for survival lie in a fast retreat.
					*page_break
					*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
				*else
					You try to pin the fighter to the ground, but he manages to wrestle you down instead. You scream in agony as he cuts your shoulder with a dagger, but the pain gives you enough strength to wriggle free of his grip and snap his neck.
					*line_break
					You lose 20 Hitpoints.
					*set health - 20
					*if health <= 0
						*goto death
					*line_break
					The other attacker backs away from you, not paying attention to his foothold. With a wide swipe of her broadsword, Lorena manages to knock him off his feet, but her opponent uses the opportunity to bury his axe in her shoulder.
					*line_break
					Lorena screams in pain. Furious, you jump at her attacker and knock him to the ground, driving your ${weapon} through his neck below the helmets protection.
					*set lorena_wounded true
					*line_break
					Together, you manage to finish off the remaining opponent easily.
					*page_break
					*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
			*if (feint) #Combat move: Feint
				You attack one of the opponents, leaving your left side wide open to an attack from the other. He goes for the trap and you manage to trip him while evading his companion.
				*line_break
				When the soldier who struck at you is robbed of his balance by the momentum of the missing swing, you strike his back and send him flying to the ground, where he breaks his neck with an ugly cracking sound.
				*line_break
				You whirl around to see your other opponent making a hasty retreat, while Lorena runs her sword through the last of the attackers.
				*page_break
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
			*if (flurry) #Combat move: Flurry
				You swing your ${Weapon} in a flittering arc and advance, forcing the attackers to give up their ground step by step. Then you bring the ${weapon} around and thrust it at one of the soldiers, killing him instantly.
				*line_break
				With his companion dead, the other attacker decides it is time for a fast retreat.
				*line_break
				Lorena, however, has more problems with her opponent. A large, bleeding cut on her shoulder makes her movements sluggish and she looses ground to the large soldier with the axe.
				*set lorena_wounded true
				*line_break
				You rush to aid her and together you manage to defeat the last attacker.
				*page_break
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
			*if (tailswipe) #Combat move: Tailswipe
				With a quick spin, you bring up your tail and knock your attackers down. In the same instant, you are above one of them, snapping his neck like a dry twig.
				*line_break
				With his companion dead, the other attacker decides it is time for a fast retreat.
				*line_break
				Lorena, however, has more problems with her opponent. A large, bleeding cut on her shoulder makes her movements sluggish and she looses ground to the large soldier with the axe.
				*set lorena_wounded true
				*line_break
				You rush to aid her and together you manage to defeat the last attacker.
				*page_break
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
			*if (spell_death > 0) #Spell: Bestow Harm
				You wander the path towards darkness.
				*set darkness %+ 5
				*line_break
				You will dark boils to appear on one of the attackers faces. He screams in agony and drops to the ground, where you finish him off easily.
				*line_break
				Seeing his companion slain by a mythological monster wielding dark magic causes your second attacker to flee in panic.
				*line_break
				Lorena, however, has more problems with her opponent. A large, bleeding cut on her shoulder makes her movements sluggish and she looses ground to the large soldier with the axe.
				*set lorena_wounded true
				*line_break
				You quickly rush to help her and together you finish off the last of the attackers.
				*page_break
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
			*if (spell_death > 1) #Spell: Absorb Vigor
				You wander the path towards darkness.
				*set darkness %+ 10
				*line_break
				Black tentacles shoot from your hands, enveloping the attackers and robbing them of their life force. Unconcious, they drop to the ground, out of the fight.
				*line_break
				You rush to assist Lorena and together you finish off the remaining attacker easily.
				*page_break
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
			*if (spell_dragon > 0) #Spell: Fury
				You call on a splinter of rage inside your soul and expand it, bringing its energy to the outside world and letting it consume your mind. Deep hatred for your enemies consumes you. With incredible speed and strength, and no regard for your own safety, you propel yourself forward to meet the attackers.
				*page_break
				As the rage subsides, the enemy soldiers lie at your feet in a mangled heep. Although you could swear they had no time to defend themselves, symmetric scars cover your chest, forming a pattern that looks almost like teeth.
				*line_break
				You lose 5 Hitpoints.
				*set health - 5
				*line_break
				Lorena, however, has more problems with her opponent. A large, bleeding cut on her shoulder makes her movements sluggish and she looses ground to the large soldier with the axe.
				*set lorena_wounded true
				*line_break
				You quickly rush to help her and together you finish off the last of the attackers.
				*page_break
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang2
*label attack_on_wolfgang2
"Come on, let's get that bastard!" Lorena points towards the leader of the attacking force, a tall man wearing an eyepatch. He is wielding one of the halberds the duke issued to the castle's guard. Two guardsmen and a knight lie dead at his feet.
*line_break
*set weapon "axe"
You pick up the axe of the soldier that attacked Lorena, then follow the duke's daughter towards the commander of the invading forces. As he sees you storming towards him, he bares his teeth. "Bad decision, gargoyle. Very bad decision." He calls, then he drops onto all four and starts changing rapidly, his muscles bulging and fur sprouting from his skin.
*line_break
"Werewolf!" Lorena gasps, then the grey beast jumps at her and knocks her over. She hits the ground hard, then lies there motionless, either dead or unconcious.
*line_break
The Werewolf turns towards you and regards you from one golden eye, the other one missing. Saliva drips from its bared fangs and a low, guttural growl emanates from deep within its chest.
*choice
	#Attack the Werewolf
		*choice
			#Swing at it blindly
				As the wolf jumps for you again, you try to hit it in the head, but the beast's movement is too fast and it catches you square into the chest instead. You struggle to keep its jaws from clamping around your throat, but you are too weak. As the teeth dig into your jugular, you cease to feel pain. Everything seems far away and a pleasant warmth spreads through your limbs.
				*goto death
			*if (wrestle) #Combat move: Wrestle
				*if strength > 30
					As the wolf jumps for you again, you manage to grab its front paws and slam it into the ground. With a vicious growl, you are upon it and close your hands around its throat. The werewolf's jaw snaps closed inches from your face and the hind legs claw at your belly, but you do not let loose. As the beast's body groes limp and its eyes roll into the back of its head, an enemy soldier throws himself at you and tries to choke you. You manage to free yourself after a short struggle, but as you turn your attention back to the wolf, it is gone.
					*line_break
					*goto attack_on_wolfgang3
				*elseif strength > 20
					As the wolf jumps for you again, you manage to grab its front paws and wrestle it to the ground. The two of you roll through the dust, snarling at each other. The werewolfs jaws snap at your face, but you manage to bring your arm up to protect it. Sharp fangs dig into your flesh and you howl in pain. With a stong punch in the gut, you manage to send the werewolf flying. It hits the ground, wounded, then runs for the front gate while you clutch your wounded arm.
					*line_break
					You lose 15 hitpoints.
					*set health - 15
					*if health <= 0
						*goto death
					*page_break
					*goto attack_on_wolfgang3
				*else
					As the wolf jumps for you again, you try to grab its front paws, but the beast's momentum is too great and it catches you square into the chest instead. You struggle to keep its jaws from clamping around your throat, but you are too weak. As the teeth dig into your jugular, you cease to feel pain. Everything seems far away and a pleasant warmth spreads through your limbs.
					*goto death
			*if (feint) #Combat move: Feint
				*if wits > 20
					You wait until the werewolf gets ready to pounce, then duck. The wolf compensates, aiming for your throat, but as it jumps, you bounce up and meet its attack with your fist. With an unearthly howl, the beast hits the ground hard and lies still.
					*choice
						#This might be a feint! Better approach carefully
							With caution, you approach the monster lying on the ground, its chest heaving. As you get close, the werewolf jumps at you without warning, fangs bared, but you are ready. With a quick blow, you send it flying to the ground once more. Blood splatters the courtyard. Yelping, the werewolf runs for the gates.
							*goto attack_on_wolfgang3
						#Finish him of quickly before he regains his composure
							You rush to kill the werewolf. Just as you approach, it tries to jump at you, but you are too quick. Using your momentum, you smash it into the head and send it skittering over the ground, leaving a trail of blood.
							*line_break
							Yelping, the monster runs for the gates.
							*goto attack_on_wolfgang3
				*else
					You wait until the werewolf gets ready to pounce, then duck. The wolf compensates, aiming for your throat, but as it jumps, you bounce up and meet its attack with your fist. With an unearthly howl, the beast hits the ground hard and lies still.
					*choice
						#This might be a feint! Better approach carefully
							With caution, you approach the monster lying on the ground, its chest heaving. Before you get close enough to strike the killing blow, the werewolf jumps at you without warning, fangs bared. You defend yourself with furious strength and manage to send the wolf running towards the gates, yelping. As you look down your body, you notice the beast has left numerous bleeding cuts in your flesh.
							*line_break
							You lose 5 hitpoints.
							*set health - 5
							*if health <= 0
								*goto death
							*page_break
							*goto attack_on_wolfgang3
						#Finish him off quickly before he regains his composure
							You rush to kill the werewolf. Just as you lunge forward, the wolf gets up with surprising speed and tears through your shoulder with its gruesome fangs. You retaliate with furious speed and manage to send the beast running for the gates, but not without sustaining serious wounds in the fight
							*line_break
							You lose 10 hitpoints.
							*set health - 10
							*if health <= 0
								*goto death
							*page_break
							*goto attack_on_wolfgang3
			*if (spell_death > 0) #Spell: Bestow Harm
				You call on the darkness inside you and the wolf's fur begins to smolder, small trails of smoke rising from it.
				*line_break
				You wander the path towards darkness.
				*set darkness %+ 5
				*line_break
				The beast is obviously in pain, but it pursues relentlessly, stalking you in a narrowing circle. As you try to intensify your spell, it leaps and throws you on the ground. Its jaws snap at your face, but you manage to bring your arm up to protect it. Sharp fangs dig into your flesh and you howl in pain. With a stong punch in the gut, you manage to send the werewolf flying. It hits the ground, wounded, then runs for the front gate while you clutch your wounded arm.
				*line_break
				You lose 15 hitpoints.
				*set health - 15
				*if health <= 0
					*goto death
				*page_break
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang3
			*if (spell_death > 1) #Spell: Absorb Vigor
				Black tentacles shoot from your fingers, enveloping the werewolf. Its life energy flows into your body and starts coursing through your veins. You feel a strange, foreign darkness besides your own, another being inside you, trying to take over control. With a considerable effort, you manage to subdue it. As you look up, the werewolf is gone, running towards the gate.
				*line_break
				You wander the path towards darkness.
				*set darkness %+ 10
				*page_break
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang3
			*if (spell_dragon > 0) #Spell: Fury
				You call on a splinter of rage inside your soul and expand it, bringing its energy to the outside world and letting it consume your mind. With a primal bellow, you throw yourself at the werewolf, pounding at its body with your fists and sinking your teeth deep into its flesh. The beast howls and tries to defend itself, but you grab its neck and throw it to the ground, where oyu hear bones cracking. Just as you prepare to kill the helpless creature, your rage suddenly wears off, leaving oyu with a burning sensation on your chest. As you look down, you see deep cuts in your flesh, forming a pattern that almost looks like teeth.
				*line_break
				You lose 5 Hitpoints.
				*set health - 5
				*if health <= 0
					*goto death
				*line_break
				As you look up, you see the werewolf fleeing for the gates, but you don't have the strength to pursue it.
				*goto attack_on_wolfgang3
	*if (spell_life > 0) #Cast a healing spell on Lorena
		You drop to the ground next to Lorena just as the Werewolf jumps at you. It is a close call, but your opponent did not expect you to duck. A claw scrapes one of your wings, then the wolf flies past, trying desperately to change its direction in the air.
		*line_break
		You lay your hand on Lorena's forehead and let your life energy flow into her body.
		*line_break
		You lose 5 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 5
		*if health <= 0
				*goto death
		*set lorena_wounded false
		*page_break
		The life returns into Lorena's body with full force. Maybe it is your gargoyle life energy, but Lorena acts faster than any human you've seen before. Before you realize what she's doing, she jumps up with her sword at the ready and meets the Werewolf, who is attacking again, in midair. Steel sings, warm drops of blood splatter your face and the beast gives an unearthly howl. Hitting the ground hard, its legs give way and it rolls through the dust of the courtyard. Lorena charges after it, but two soldiers jump into her way just to fall under two deadly strikes of her sword.
		*line_break
		The werewolf, however, uses the short moment of distraction to flee to the main gate and vanish into the night, followed by the rest of his troops.
		*line_break
		*if lorena_lover
			"We did it!" Lorena drops her sword and turns towards you. Her eyes have an unnatural white glow and you feel like you are looking into the sun. She flings her arms around you and pulls you to the ground with surprising strength. Just as her lips meet yours, Sir Grilt, a knight of the noble guard, speaks up. "The threat is not over, My Lady. The enemy engaged the castle from numerous locations and most of his troops are still loose. We should defend the Inner Castle and protect your father."
			*page_break
			"Not to contradict Sir Grilt", one of the other knights chimes in, "but we should concentrate our efforts on protecting the Library Tower. The Magus is the only one who can offer a magical defense against creatures such as this werewolf and dark magics."
			*line_break
			Lorena gets up and brushes the dust from her clothes. The glow in her eyes is already weakening. "What do you think?" She asks you.
			*choice
				#Defend the inner castle
					*goto defend_the_duke
				#Defend the library tower
					*goto defend_the_magus
		*elseif lorena_friend
			Lorena throws her arms around your neck. Her eyes have an unnatural white glow and you feel like you are looking into the sun. Before you can react, she pulls you close and presses her lips on yours.
			*choice
				#Pull away
					She reddens and quickly looks away. The white glow in her eyes fade.
					*line_break
					*goto attack_on_wolfgang2b
				#Kiss her back
					*set lorena_lover true
					You reciprocate the kiss, feeling her hot lips pressed against yours. When you pull her closer, feeling her hands caressing your back, you are suddenly interrupted.
					*goto attack_on_wolfgang2b
		*else
			Lorena hugs you, the glow in her eyes slowly fading.
			*choice
				#Hug her back
					*set lorena_friend true
					*goto attack_on_wolfgang2b
				#Push her away
					Lorena's cheeks redden and she looks away sadly.
					*goto attack_on_wolfgang2b
*label attack_on_wolfgang2b
Sir Grilt, a knight of the noble guard, clears his throat. "The threat is not over, My Lady. The enemy engaged the castle from numerous locations and most of his troops are still on the loose. We should defend the Inner Castle and protect your father."
*page_break
"Not to contradict Sir Grilt", one of the other knights chimes in, "but we should concentrate our efforts on protecting the Library Tower. The Magus is the only one who can offer a magical defense against creatures such as this werewolf and dark magics."
*line_break
Lorena turns to you, the redness in her cheeks gone. "What do you think?" She asks.
*choice
	#Defend the inner castle
		*goto defend_the_duke
	#Defend the library tower
		*goto defend_the_magus
*label attack_on_wolfgang3
The rest of the enemy soldiers retreat through the front gate. Lorena gets up to her feet, swaying a bit and looking around disoriented. Sir Grilt, a knight of the noble guard, rushes to your side.
*if gender = "m"
	"We need to make a decision, Sir!" It seems you are in command for the moment. "The enemy is closing on the inner castle and the library tower is under attack. We must join the defense!"
	*choice
		#Defend the inner castle
			*goto defend_the_duke
		#Defend the library tower
			*goto defend_the_magus
*elseif gender = "f"
	"We need to make a decision, Mylady!" It seems you are in command for the moment. "The enemy is closing on the inner castle and the library tower is under attack. We must join the defense!"
	*choice
		#Defend the inner castle
			*goto defend_the_duke
		#Defend the library tower
			*goto defend_the_magus
*else
	"We need to make a decision!" It seems you are in command for the moment. "The enemy is closing on the inner castle and the library tower is under attack. We must join the defense!"
	*choice
		#Defend the inner castle
			*goto defend_the_duke
		#Defend the library tower
			*goto defend_the_magus

			*comment @todo: implement further
			
*label attack_on_lorena
"Aye, welcome to the winning team Gargoyle." The leader of the attacking soldiers is a tall man with greyish hair. His face would be ruggedly handsome, were it not for a scar emanating from under an eyepatch over the left eye and running down to his chin. "My name's Wolfgang. Don't mess with me and we'll get along just fine."
*line_break
You turn towards the defenders and see Lorena charging towards you and Wolfgang, accompanied by two knights of the castle's noble guard.
*line_break
"Time to play, Gargoyle." Wolfgang says beside you, then starts to change.
*line_break
*if darkness <= 50
	You watch in horror as his flesh twists and reforms itself. Bones are cracking, teeth are turning into fangs and fur begins to sprout from his body. After a moment, Wolfgang is gone and a great grey wolf stands at your side, saliva dropping from its lips.
*if darkness > 50
	Fascinated, you watch as his flesh starts to twist and reform itself. Bones are cracking, teeth are turning into fangs and fur begins to sprout from his body. After a moment, Wolfgang is gone and a great grey wolf stands at your side, saliva dropping from its lips.
The defenders hesitate for just a moment, then continue to charge.
*line_break
You ...
*choice
	#... let them come, then hit them or something.
		You throw yourself into the oncoming assault, taking numerous wounds from their swords.
		*line_break
		You lose 20 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 20
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		Managing to grab one of the defenders, you break her neck like a dry twig.
		*goto attack_on_lorena2
	*if (wrestle) #Combat move: Wrestle
		*if strength > 30
			One of the knights swings her blade at you. You deftly duck away, then grab her sword arm and twist it until you hear it snap. With a howl of pain, she lets go of her sword and it clatters to the ground. With great strength, you manage to wrestle her to the ground and push your knees into her chest. When her resistance lessens, you grab her head and snap her neck. It breaks like a dry twig.
			*goto attack_on_lorena2
		*elseif strength > 20
			You grab one of the approaching soldiers and manage to wrestle him to the ground, pushing your knees into his chest. As you snap his neck, you hear a howl of pain next to you. Wolfgang is clawing at one of the knights standing over him, sword ready to strike. Before you can react, Wolfgang bites at the knight's neck and tears out the windpipe. The fight took a toll, though. Wolfgang is bleeding from numerous cut wounds along his fur.
			*set wolfgang_wounded true
			*goto attack_on_lorena2
		*else
			You try to grab one of the defenders, but she deftly evades your grip and buries her sword in your shoulder.
			*line_break
			You lose 20 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 20
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death
			*line_break
			You cry out, but the pain gives you enough strength to wrestle the sword from her and kill her with it.
			*goto attack_on_lorena2
	*if (feint) #Combat move: Feint
		You feign an attack against one of the defenders. She reacts with a fluid combat move, but you've seen the guard practice often enough to anticipate her movements. Quick as a flash, you turn around and decapitate her with your ${weapon}.
		*goto attack_on_lorena2
	*if (flurry) #Combat move: Flurry
		Your ${weapon} turns into a glimmering arc of deadly steel. The oncoming soldiers back away from you, but with a fast strike, you manage to bring down one of the knights.
		*goto attack_on_lorena2
	*if (tailswipe) #Combat move: Tailswipe
		You turn around your own axis quickly, bringing several of the oncoming soldiers down with a swipe of your tail. As they hit the ground, you are above one of the knights, plunging your ${weapon} into his chest.
		*goto attack_on_lorena2
	*if (spell_death > 0) #Spell: Bestow Harm
		You wander the path towards darkness.
		*set darkness %+ 10
		*line_break
		You call on the dark powers inside you and one of the defenders cries out in pain and stumbles. Quickly, you are above him and kill him with your ${weapon} while he is still writhing helplessly on the floor.			
		*goto attack_on_lorena2
	*if (spell_death > 1) #Spell: Absorb Vigor
		You wander the path towards darkness.
		*set darkness %+ 20
		*line_break            
		Black tentacles shoot out of your hands and envelop several of the defenders. You suck their life energy out of them and they drop to the ground.
		*set health + 20
		*if health >= 100
			You feel fully refreshed.
			*set health 100
		*if health < 100
			You feel a lot better as your wounds start to heal.
		Jumping on one of the enemy soldiers, you plunge your ${weapon} into her chest.
		*goto attack_on_lorena2
	*if (spell_dragon > 0) #Spell: Fury
		You call upon your dragon ancestors, instilling your soul with primal fury. Like a ball-lightning, you tear through their defenses and plunge your ${weapon} into the chest of one of the knights.
		*goto attack_on_lorena2

*label attack_on_lorena2
*line_break
As you look up from the dead body, you face Lorena.
*line_break
*if lorena_lover
	She pales as she looks at you. "I ... You ..." She stutters, tears rolling from her eyes, then her face hardens and she swings her sword at you violently.
	*set lorena_lover false
	*set lorena_friend false
	*goto attack_on_lorena2a
*elseif lorena_friend
	"Traitor!" She screams, "I trusted you!" She brings her sword around in a great arc.
	*set lorena_friend false
	*goto attack_on_lorena2a
*else
	"I never trusted you, ${Name}" she hisses, then strikes at you with her sword.
	*goto attack_on_lorena2a
*label attack_on_lorena2a
How do you plan to defend yourself?
*choice
	#Try to knock her down
		The sword hisses over your head as you duck, then you propel yourself towards Lorena and tackle her, but she winds out of your grip like a slippery fish. As quick as a flash, she swings the sword at you again, leaving a deep cut on your chest.
		*line_break
		You lose 30 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 30
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		*line_break
		With a scream of agony, you drop to your knees. Just as Lorena raises her weapon to strike the killing blow, a large stone hits her into the face, smashing her nose and sending her to the ground, unconcious. Two of Wolfgang's men grab her and tie her up.
		*comment TODO: WOUND feature - chest cut
		*goto attack_on_lorena3
	*if (wrestle) #Combat move: Wrestle
		*if strength > 30
			The sword hisses over your head as you duck, then you propel yourself towards Lorena and tackle her. Her broadsword clatters to the ground. She tries to get her hands around your throat to choke you, but despite her great strength and excellent training, she is no match for you. As you pin her to the ground, two of Wolfgang's men come running with some rope to tie her up.
			*page_break
			*goto attack_on_lorena3
		*elseif strength > 20
			The sword hisses over your head as you duck, then you propel yourself towards Lorena and tackle her. Her broadsword clatters to the ground, but she quickly brings one knee up and rams it into your abdomen. While you gasp for air, Lorena pulls a dagger out of her boot and stabs you into the shoulder.
			*line_break
			You lose 20 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 20
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death
			*line_break
			You scream in agony as she pulls the dagger out for another strike, but before she can stab you again, your elbow smashes her nose. Knocked unconcious by the blow, Lorena is defenseless as two of Wolfgang's men rush to your side with some rope to tie her up.
			*goto attack_on_lorena3
		*else
			The sword hisses over your head as you duck, then you propel yourself towards Lorena and tackle her, but she winds out of your grip like a slippery fish. As quick as a flash, she swings the sword at you again, leaving a deep cut on your chest.
			*line_break
			You lose 30 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 30
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death
			*line_break
			With a scream of agony, you drop to your knees. Just as Lorena raises her weapon to strike the killing blow, a large stone hits her into the face, smashing her nose and sending her to the ground, unconcious. Two of Wolfgang's men grab her and tie her up.
			*comment TODO: WOUND feature - chest cut
			*goto attack_on_lorena3
	*if (feint) #Combat move: Feint
		You take Lorena's blow, but make sure that it only grazes your soulder lightly. Dropping to one knee, you feign an injury. Lorena raises her sword, ready to kill you with a final blow. "This is for the Betrayal of the family that has done so much for you." She says, full of hatred. As the sword swoops down, you jump at her and throw her to the ground, knocking her unconcious. Two of Wolfgang's men rush to your side with some rope and help you to tie Lorena up.
		*goto attack_on_lorena3
	*if (spell_death > 0) #Spell: Bestow Harm
		You wander the path towards darkness.
		*set darkness %+ 10
		*line_break
		You call on the dark powers inside you and dark boils appear on Lorena's skin. The once pretty face is disfigured by black sores and distorted by agony as the duke's daughter swings her weapon at you. The blade grazes your shoulder, but you manage to protect your neck.
		*line_break
		You lose 10 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 10
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		*line_break
		As quick as a flash, you lunge at her and manage to knock her to the ground. Two of Wolfgang's men rush to your side with some rope and help you to tie Lorena up.
		*goto attack_on_lorena3
	*if (spell_death > 1) #Spell: Absorb Vigor
		You wander the path towards darkness.
		*set darkness %+ 20
		*line_break
		Black tendrils shoot from your hands and envelop Lorena. She suspires and drops to her knees, all strength gone from her bones. Two of Wolfgang's men rush to your side with some rope and help you to tie Lorena up.
		*goto attack_on_lorena3
	*if (spell_dragon > 0) #Spell: Fury
		You find a shard of pure violence inside yourself and cradle it like a long lost child. Lorena's blade comes down, but it seems slow as if cutting through sirup. With lightning-fast movements, you disarm her and strike her with your fists, sending her to the ground unconcious. As the rage subsides, you notice symmetric scars cover your chest, forming a pattern that looks almost like teeth.
		*line_break
		You lose 5 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 5
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		*line_break
		Two of Wolfgang's men rush to your side with some rope to tie her up.
		*goto attack_on_lorena3

*label attack_on_lorena3
*line_break
Do you want to pick up Lorena's broadswoard to replace your ${weapon}?
*choice
	#Yes
		*set weapon "royal broadsword"
		*goto attack_on_lorena3a
	#No
		*goto attack_on_lorena3a
*label attack_on_lorena3a
*page_break
You turn to see how the battle is going. Most of the defenders are lying on the ground, either dead or dying. Besides Lorena, Sir Grilt, a knight of the noble guard, and one of the senior guards have been captured and are led out of the gate, probably for interrogation. Some of the surviving defenders are retreating towards the inner castle.
*line_break
"Good job, gargoyle!" Wolfgang slaps you on the back. He has turned into a human again and is standing next to you. Since he lost all of his clothes in the transformation, he is naked and shivering slightly in the cool night air.
*set wolfgang_friend true
*line_break
You ...
*choice
	#... look away
		You quickly look away and thankfully see a soldier running towards the two of you with a light replacement armor for the werewolf.
		*goto attack_on_lorena3b
	#... sneak a peak
		Wolfgang has a strong and muscular physique. The hair on his chest is the same color as the fur of the wolf he turned into and scars cover his whole body.
		*line_break
		Are you attracted to him?
		*choice
			#No
				Why not?
				*fake_choice
					#I'm not into humans, not even ones that can turn into wolves.
						Of course.
					#I'm not into males in general.
						Of course.
					#He's just not my type.
						Of course.
					#I'm not interested in things like that.
						Of course.
				One of Wolfgang's soldiers comes running towards the two of you with a light replacement armor for the werewolf.
				*goto attack_on_lorena3b
			#Yes
				Wolfgang catches you looking at him and winks at you, grinning. One of his soldiers comes running towards the two of you with a light replacement armor for the werewolf.
				*set wolfgang_lover true
				*goto attack_on_lorena3b
*label attack_on_lorena3b
Wolfgang quickly puts on the armor while giving instructions to his men. He obviously has a lot of practice in this.
*line_break
"As for you ..." He turns towards you. "I'll be needing you to ..."
*choice
	#Interrupt Wolfgang before he dares to order you around
		"I'll be giving the orders." You growl.
		*line_break
		Wolfgang does not even blink. " So what do we do?"
		*choice
			#Attack the Magus in the library tower while the rest of the army invades the inner castle
				*goto attack_on_the_magus
			#Go directly for the duke in the inner castle while the rest of the army takes care of the Magus
				*goto attack_on_the_duke
	#Let him finish
		"I'll be needing you to either lead the charge against the inner castle or take care of the Magus while the rest of the army captures the duke."
		*choice
			#Attack the duke in the inner castle
				*goto attack_on_the_duke
			#Attack the Magus in the library tower
				*goto attack_on_the_magus

*label attack_on_the_magus
Even from a distance, you can see that the Magus is preparing for an attack. Dark stormclouds are gathering near the tower and lightning strikes its tip again and again. The Magus is obviously drawing on nature to get the magical energy he needs for his defensive spells. 
*if wits > 20
	You once read that a powerful artifact is required to focus magical energy like this. If the Magus were to loose control of that artifact, he would also loose control over the energy.
*line_break
"You know this castle better than I do, gargoyle. What's your name by the way? Calling you 'gargoyle' will get tiresome soon."
*choice
	#${Name}
		*set alias name
		*goto attack_on_the_magus1
	#"Gargoyle" will suffice.
		*set alias "gargoyle"
		*goto attack_on_the_magus1
	#You don't need to know my name.
		*set alias "gargoyle"
		*goto attack_on_the_magus1
	#Other ...
		*input_text alias
		*goto attack_on_the_magus1
*label attack_on_the_magus1
"Well, ${alias}, you know this castle better than I do. How should we engage the tower?"
*choice
	#With a direct assault.
		*goto attack_on_the_magus2
	#The main troops should attack the tower as a diversion while an elite troop infiltrates it to kill the Magus.
		*goto attack_on_the_magus3
	*if (wits > 20) #We need to steal or destroy the artifact the Magus is using to focus his magical energy.
		*goto attack_on_the_magus3
	#I need more information about the composition of our troops and our abilities.
		*goto attack_on_the_magus1a
*label attack_on_the_magus1a
"Well, look around you" Wolfgang points at his men. "My unit of brave warriors is all the manpower we have. The main advantage of our assault is the unpreparedness of the defenders, as you just witnessed. Our siege equipment and the heavy infantry will arrive later, the battle should best be won by then. Other troops of warriors are fighting at the walls and inner castle. It is our responsibility to take down the mage's tower."
*line_break
How do you plan to engage the tower?
*choice
	#With a direct assault.
		*goto attack_on_the_magus2
	#The main troops should attack the tower as a diversion while an elite troop infiltrates it to kill the Magus.
		*goto attack_on_the_magus3
	*if (wits > 20) #We need to steal or destroy the artifact the Magus is using to focus his magical energy.
		*goto attack_on_the_magus3

*label attack_on_the_magus2
You gather the troops and divide them into two flanks. Wolfgang raises his sword in salute to you before taking command of one of the flanks. As you take your positions, a lightning bolt strikes the tower with a deafening boom and the colossal gates swing open.
*line_break
A huge golem emerges, a creature made entirely of clay and stone and animated by magical energies, at least ten feet tall and almost as wide. It is undoubtetly under the Magus' control.
*line_break
A heavy rain starts to fall as the monster advances on Wolfgang's position. Two of Wolfgang's men charge with raised swords, but a stone fist knocks them to the ground and mashes them into a bloody pulp.
*line_break
Your men look at you questioningly, but there is no fear in their eyes.
*choice
	#"Everyone charge!"
		With a unified cry of war, the men charge at the gargoyle without thought for their own well-being. You marvel at their loyalty, then see them get slaughtered one by one, skulls shattering and bones breaking like dry leaves under the impacts of the stone fists.
		*if darkness > 60
			You can not surpress a snicker.
		*if darkness < 50
			You can not help but feel a pinch of guilt.
		*line_break
		Do you join the assault?
		*choice
			#Yes!
				You throw yourself at the beast as well, deftly evading its strikes, then climb up the body and get a hold on its head. The golem seems to be too occupied with the little men chopping away at its limbs to pay any attention to you.
				*if strength > 30
					You raise your ${Weapon} and ram it into the golem as hard as you can. The hilt breakes, but you grab the blade and push further.
					*line_break
					You lose 5 Hitpoints.
					*set health - 5
					*if health <= 0
						*goto death
					*line_break
					After a moment, the monsters movements seem to slow down. Some of Wolfgang's men concentrate their efforts to throw it off balance, and the golem falls like a felled tree. At the last instant, you save yourself with a leap.
					*line_break
					"Good work" Wolfgang says and hands you a short sword to replace your ${weapon}.
					*set weapon "short sword"
					*line_break
					Your strength increases.
					*set strength %+ 10
					*line_break
					*goto attack_on_the_magus2a
				*else
					You raise your ${Weapon} and try to ram it into the golem's head, but you are not strong enough. The blow is hard enough to get the beasts attention, though, and it turns towards you, grazing you with one of its stone fists.
					*line_break
					You lose 20 Hitpoints.
					*set health - 20
					*if health <= 0
						*goto death
					*line_break
					Wolfgang's men use the distraction to concentrate their efforts to throw it off balance, and the golem falls like a felled tree. At the last instant, you save yourself with a leap.
					*goto attack_on_the_magus2a
			#No.
				You watch as Wolfgang and his men fight the golem. The stone fists whirl through the air, eliminating soldiers and tossing them into all directions. Finally, it is brought down. Only a few of the soldiers are still alive. Wolfgang is holding his right shoulder and grimacing in pain as he glares at you.
				*set wolfgang_wounded true
				*set army_diminished true
				*set wolfgang_friend false
				*set wolfgang_lover false
				*goto attack_on_the_magus2a
	#Attack the golem alone.
		"Stay here!" You hiss at the soldiers, then launch yourself at the gargoyle.
		*choice
			#Go for the head
				You throw yourself at the beast, deftly evading its strikes, then climb up the body and get a hold on its head. The golem tries to hit you, but has difficulty aiming at you due to your position.
				*if strength > 30
					You raise your ${Weapon} and ram it into the golem as hard as you can. The hilt breakes, but you grab the blade and push further.
					*line_break
					You lose 5 Hitpoints.
					*set health - 5
					*if health <= 0
						*goto death
					*line_break
					After a moment, the monsters movements seem to slow down. Some of Wolfgang's men charge and throw it off balance, and the golem falls like a felled tree. At the last instant, you save yourself with a leap.
					*line_break
					"Good work" Wolfgang says and hands you a short sword to replace your ${weapon}.
					*set weapon "short sword"
					*line_break
					Your strength increases.
					*set strength %+ 10
					*line_break
					*goto attack_on_the_magus2a
				*else
					You raise your ${Weapon} and try to ram it into the golem's head, but you are not strong enough. The blow is hard enough to get the beasts attention, though, and it turns towards you, grazing you with one of its stone fists.
					*line_break
					You lose 20 Hitpoints.
					*set health - 20
					*if health <= 0
						*goto death
					*line_break
					Wolfgang's men use the distraction to charge and throw it off balance, and the golem falls like a felled tree. At the last instant, you save yourself with a leap.
					*goto attack_on_the_magus2a
			#Attack the place where the eyes should be
				*if flight > 20
					You climb up a nearby wall a few feet, then push off and glide towards the golems head. It strikes at you but your uncanny maneuvering ability saves you. Digging your claws into the clay that forms the golems "face", you strike it with your ${weapon} repeatedly. After a moment, the monsters movements seem to slow down. Some of Wolfgang's men charge and throw it off balance, and the golem falls like a felled tree. At the last instant, you save yourself with a leap.
					*line_break
					"Good work" Wolfgang pats you on the shoulder.
					*line_break
					Your flight skill increases.
					*set flight %+ 10
					*line_break
					*goto attack_on_the_magus2a
				*else
					You climb up a nearby wall a few feet, then push off and glide towards the golems head. It strikes at you and you hear some bones in your shoulder break, but you manage to dig your claws into the clay that forms the golems "face" anyway, striking it with your ${weapon} repeatedly.
					*line_break
					You lose 20 Hitpoints.
					*set health - 20
					*if health <= 0
						*goto death
					*line_break
					After a moment, the monsters movements seem to slow down. Some of Wolfgang's men charge and throw it off balance, and the golem falls like a felled tree. At the last instant, you save yourself with a leap.
					*line_break
					"Good work" Wolfgang pats you on the shoulder.
					*set weapon "short sword"
					*line_break
					Your flight skill increases.
					*set flight %+ 10
					*line_break
					*goto attack_on_the_magus2a
			*if (wits > 10) #Try to topple the beast
				You shout some hurried commands and Wolfgang's troops take out rope and chains. As some of them go for the feet, you hastily climb up a nearby wall to gain some height, then launch yourself at the monsters head. Flailing its fists through the air, trying to get you off its face, the golem looses balance, tumbles and hits the dirt. Wolfgang's men cheer as you plunge your ${weapon} into its lifeless head.
				*goto attack_on_the_magus2a
	*if (wits > 10) #Have some of your men distract the beast while the rest dodge it and enter the tower.
		You yell some commands and a couple of particularly courageous men engage the golem in a cat and mouse game. Attacking it from different angles and slowly leading it away from the tower.
		*set army_diminished true
		*goto attack_on_the_magus2a
	*if (wits > 30) #There was some other way to defeat a golem ...
		You remember now. Every golem has a command phrase, a magic incantation to turn it back into lifeless stone and clay. You once overheard the Magus teaching it to one of his students.
		*goto incantation
	*if (magus_starpupil) #I know that golem!
		You remember the golem. It was kept hidden in a large chamber of the Magus' tower in case of an attack on the castle, but as the Magus' star pupil, you were allowed to see it. The Magus showed it to you to demonstrate both the power and fragility of magic. You know that the golem has a command phrase, a magic incantation to turn it back into lifeless stone and clay.
		*label incantation
		If only you could remember what it was.
		*choice
			#"Living Stone, turn to dust."
				You shout, but this incantation doesn't feel right.
				*goto wrong_incantation
			*if (wits < 20) #"Go away, Golem!"
				Even as the words leave your mouth, you feel stupid.
				*goto wrong_incantation
			#"Earth to earth, clay to clay."
				You shout the words and the golem stops dead in its tracks, the magical energy suddenly sucked out of it.
				*line_break
				Wolfgang nods at you, impressed. "Good job, ${alias}"
				*goto attack_on_the_magus2a
			*if (wits < 30) #"From whence you came, you shall remain."
				As you shout, you remember this incantation was a measure against summoned demons, not golems.
				*goto wrong_incantation
	*if (spell_death >= 3) #Spell: Harvest Soul
		You reach into the golem with your mind. Of course, a construct like this does not have a soul, but you can feel the glow of magical energy that animates the stone and clay. You pull it from the monster like a splinter from flesh and the giant beast crumbles into dust.
	*if (spell_mind >= 2) #Spell: Wipe Memory
		You reach into the golem with your mind, finding its magical commands and erasing them. Robbed of its imperative, the golem stops dead in its tracks.
		*line_break
		Wolfgang nods at you, impressed. "Good job, ${alias}"
		*goto attack_on_the_magus2a
*label wrong_incantation
*set time + 1
*if (time > 2)
	The golem finally has enough of your shouting at him. One of his stone fists whirls through the air and crushes you like a bug.
	*goto death
*else
	The golem ignores your shouting and continues his attack on your men. The stone fists whirl through the air, eliminating soldiers and tossing them into all directions.
	*choice
		#"Living Stone, turn to dust."
			*goto wrong_incantation
		*if (wits < 20) #"Go away, Golem!"
			Even as the words leave your mouth, you feel stupid.
			*goto wrong_incantation
		#"Earth to earth, clay to clay."
			You shout the words and the golem stops dead in its tracks, the magical energy suddenly sucked out of it.
			*line_break
			Wolfgang nods at you, impressed. "Good job, ${alias}"
			*goto attack_on_the_magus2a
		*if (wits < 30) #"From whence you came, you shall remain."
			You remember this to be a measure against summoned demons, not against golems.
			*goto wrong_incantation

*label attack_on_the_magus3
While your main force attacks the front gate, drawing the wrath of a protector golem, you find a side entrance, accompanied only by Wolfgang and a few of his best warriors.
*set army_diminished true
*goto attack_on_the_magus2a1

*label attack_on_the_magus2a
With the golem taken care of, you rush into the tower. A winding staircase leads upwards, with doors to different chambers on every level. Arcane Incantations are coming from the chamber at the very top of the stairs.
*line_break
*goto attack_on_the_magus2a1

*label attack_on_the_magus2a1
As you enter, several of the chamber doors burst open and soldiers of the castle guard emerge.
*if army_diminished
	Your men throw themselves into battle, but you're unsure as to how long they will be able to keep the guards busy. After the heavy losses you have already encountered, the odds are against you.
	*choice
		#Fight for victory alongside your men
			*if strength > 25
				Wolfgang turns into a wolf again and together you rip into the opposing ranks. It is a tough battle and you sustain several wounds at the swords of the defenders.
				You lose 25 Hitpoints.
				*set health - 25
				*if health <= 0
					*goto death
				In the end you triumph and head up the stairs.
				*goto magus_chamber_stairs
			*else
				You do your best, but the battle is hopeless.
				*line_break
				"You're a freakin' gargoyle, god dammit!" Wolfgang shouts at you. "Go up on the outside, we'll keep the boys here busy." He jumps forward, turning into a wolf in midflight and throwing a guardsmen to the ground.
				*line_break
				Wolfgang is right. You need to get outside and climb the tower.
				*set army_lost true
				*set wolfgang_wounded true
				*goto magus_chamber_wall
		#Fight your way up the stairs to the Magus' chamber
			You run up the stairs, killing everyone who dares stand in your way. Below you, you hear the dying screams of your soldiers. There is not much time.
			*set army_lost true
			*set wolfgang_wounded true
			*goto magus_chamber_stairs
		#Leave the tower and climb up on the outside while your men keep the defenders busy
			Guessing your plan, Wolfgang nods at you before he turns into a wolf and joins the fight.
			*goto magus_chamber_wall
*else
	Your troops rush into battle and you have no doubt they will triumph quickly.
	*choice
		#Fight for victory alongside your men
			With your and Wolfgang's help, the battle is over quickly. As fast as you can, you rush up the stairs.
			*goto magus_chamber_stairs
		#Fight your way up the stairs to the Magus' chamber
			You run up the stairs, killing everyone who dares stand in your way. Below you, you hear the dying screams of the tower guards.
			*goto magus_chamber_stairs
		#Leave the tower and climb up on the outside while your men keep the defenders busy
			Guessing your plan, Wolfgang nods at you before he turns into a wolf and joins the fight.
			*goto magus_chamber_wall
*label magus_chamber_wall
You run outside and look up the tower's wall. The stones are smooth, gray granite, but you can dig into the gaps between the stones with our claws. As you clamber upwards, you feel like a youngling again, climbing the castle's various walls and towers.
*line_break
Caught up in the moment, you almost miss a glow coming from one of the window in the second to highest story. Carefully you sneak up to it and peer through. In the middle of the chamber, a glowing orb is sitting on a pedestral. The air around it seems to vibrate.
*goto orb_chamber
*label magus_chamber_stairs
As you head towards the top of the towers, you see a glow coming from a chamber to your left. As you peer in, you see a glowing orb on a pedestral. The air around it seems to vibrate.
*goto orb_chamber
*label orb_chamber
*if wits > 20
	This must be the artifact the Magus is using to concentrate his powers. If you destroy it, the magical defenses of the castle will fall. It might be warded against attack, though.
*if wits <=19
	The thing looks important, but it could be a trap or defensive device as well as a powerful artifact.
*choice
	#Leave the orb alone
		*goto magus_chamber
	#Enter the chamber
		As you enter, the glowing intensifies and you can hear a deep hum emanating from the orb. You feel a tingling sensation in your wing tips.
		*choice
			#Go towards it
				The humming becomes a roar as you come near the orb. Your whole body seems to resonate with the magical energies and your teeth start to hum.
				*choice
					#Shatter the orb
						*goto orb
					#Take the orb
						*label orb
						As you touch  the orb, its outer layer splinters and for a moment, only a glowing ball of magic energy lies on the pedestral. Then it explodes, throwing you across the room against a wall. The bones in your arm are shattered by the overload of magical energy and your skin burns like hellfire.
						*line_break
						Your strength decreases.
						*set strength %- 15
						*line_break
						You lose 30 Hitpoints.
						*set health - 30
						*if health <= 0
							*goto death
						*page_break Try to stand up ...
						*comment TODO: WOUNDS for orb
						As you scramble to your feet, every bone in your body aching, you feel a tingling behind your eyes. A sudden rush of power fills you. Pure magical energy is flowing through your veins. You try to get a hold of it, but it is like a slippery blob of quicksilver inside you. If you channel it quickly enough, you might be able to keep it inside you, in a form you can use.
						*set orb_broken true
						*choice
							*if (spell_death < 3) #Channel it into your death magic ability
								*set spell_death + 1
								*if spell_death = 1
									You learn a new spell: Bestow Harm.
									*line_break
									You wander the path towards darkness.
									*set darkness %+ 10
									*page_break
									*goto leave_orb_chamber
								*elseif spell_death = 2
									You learn a new spell: Absorb Vigor.
									*line_break
									You wander the path towards darkness.
									*set darkness %+ 20
									*page_break
									*goto leave_orb_chamber
								*elseif spell_death = 3
									You learn a new spell: Harvest Soul.
									*line_break
									You wander the path towards darkness.
									*set darkness %+ 30
									*page_break
									*goto leave_orb_chamber
							*if (spell_life < 3) #Channel it into your life magic ability
								*set spell_life + 1
								*if spell_life = 1
									You learn a new spell: Heal.
									*page_break
									*goto leave_orb_chamber
								*elseif spell_life = 2
									You learn a new spell: Avatar.
									*page_break
									*goto leave_orb_chamber
								*elseif spell_life = 3
									You learn a new spell: Resurrect.
									*page_break
									*goto leave_orb_chamber
							*if (spell_mind < 3) #Channel it into your mind magic ability
								*set spell_mind + 1
								*if spell_mind = 1
									You learn a new spell: Empathy.
									*page_break
									*goto leave_orb_chamber
								*elseif spell_mind = 2
									You learn a new spell: Wipe Memory.
									*page_break
									*goto leave_orb_chamber
								*elseif spell_mind = 3
									You learn a new spell: Dominate.
									*page_break
									*goto leave_orb_chamber								
							*if (spell_dragon < 3) #Channel it into your dragon magic ability
								*set spell_dragon + 1
								*if spell_dragon = 1
									You learn a new spell: Fury.
									*page_break
									*goto leave_orb_chamber
								*elseif spell_dragon = 2
									You learn a new spell: TODO: DRAGON MAGIC LVL 2.
									*page_break
									*goto leave_orb_chamber
								*elseif spell_dragon = 3
									You learn a new spell: TODO: DRAGON MAGIC LVL 3.
									*page_break
									*goto leave_orb_chamber	
						*goto leave_orb_chamber									
					#Leave the orb alone
						*goto magus_chamber
			#Leave the orb alone
				*goto magus_chamber

*label leave_orb_chamber
You kindle your newfound power as you head for the chamber's exit. The Magus should beware, you're coming for him.
*goto magus_chamber

*label magus_chamber
*if orb_broken
	The way to the Magus' chamber is not far.  As you break down the door, you see the Magus kneeling on the floor. The light in his eyes has faded, all his power gone with the destruction of the orb.
	*if magus_starpupil
		You feel a sting of pity for your old master.
	"So, it has come to this ..." The Magus says, then starts to cough. Blood splatters the floor. "Do me one last favor, will you? Please end my suffering." The Magus dips his head, baring his neck.
	*choice
		#End it
			You bring down your ${weapon} quickly, killing the old man with a single blow.
			*line_break
			You wander the path towards light.
			*set darkness %- 5		
			*page_break
			*goto magus_death
		#Let him suffer
			You watch the Magus as he draws his last, painful breath.
			*line_break
			You wander the path towards darkness.
			*set darkness %+ 5
			*page_break
			*goto magus_death
*else
	*temp magus_wounds
	*set magus_wounds 0
	The way to the Magus' chamber is not far.  As you break down the door, the Magus looks at you unsurprised. There is hatred in his eyes.
	*if magus_starpupil
		*line_break
		"I loved you like a son!" He hisses.
	*line_break
	A swirl of Magic energy surrounds the Magus. He is standing in a circle drawn on the floor and does not seem to be able to leave it. Behind him, three murals adorn the wall. In each, there is a symbol and the depiction of a mage in a certain stance.
	*line_break
	In the first one, a mage stands on both feet, his arms outstretched, under a white sun.
	*if wits > 20
		You know this to be the symbol of life magic.
	In the second one, the mage is standing on one leg while forming a roof over his head with his hands. Above him, there is a triangle, containing concentric circles and curving lines.
	*if wits > 25
		This is the symbol of the magic of the mind.
	The third mural is depicting a mage looking to the ground while crossing his arms in front of his chest. Above him, a giant skull is hovering in the sky.
	*if wits > 10
		This is obviously the symbol for death magic.
	*if wits > 30
		It suddenly dawns on you that this must be the secret defensive positions against the different schools of magic you once read about.
	*line_break
	As you watch the murals, the Magus begins muttering words in a foreign language.
	*if spell_death > 0
		You recognize the incantations for the "Bestow Harm" spell.
	Your skin begins to burn and black boils are appearing on it.
	*choice
		#Attack the Magus
			You lunge forward, but the pain slows your movements. The Magus evades your attack and continues his incantations.
			*line_break
			You lose 15 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 15
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death
			*goto magus_chamber2
		*if (sneak_attack) #Combat Move: Sneak attack			
			You ignore the pain and throw yourself at the Magus, hitting him with your ${weapon} hard. The Magus interrupts his spell to form a flimmering protective barrier around himself.
			You lose 10 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 10
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death
			*set magus_wounds + 1
			*goto magus_chamber2
		*if (spell_death > 0) #Spell: Bestow Harm
			You wander the path towards darkness.
			*set darkness %+ 5
			*line_break			
			You copy the Magus' tactic and cast a Bestow Harm spell yourself. The Magus' skin begins to bubble a bit, then he takes over your spell and turns it against you, intensifying your pain.
			You lose 25 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 25
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death
			*goto magus_chamber2	
		*if (spell_death > 1) #Spell: Absorb Vigor
			You wander the path towards darkness.
			*set darkness %+ 10
			*line_break
			You let dark tendrils shoot from your fingers. They mingle with the Magus' spell. For a moment, pure death energy is swirling around in the room, neither under your control nor under the Magus'. Then the energy disperses with a last burst of death. Both you and the Magus are knocked to the ground.
			*line_break
			You lose 10 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 10
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death
			*set magus_wounds + 1
			*goto magus_chamber2
		*if (spell_death > 2) #Spell: Harvest Soul
			You wander the path towards darkness.
			*set darkness %+ 30
			*line_break
			You reach out for the Magus' soul, ignoring the pain caused by his pathetic little cantrip.
			*line_break
			You lose 15 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 15
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death
			As the old man realizes what you are doing, his eyes widen in terror and he recoils from your darkness, but it is of no use. You take his soul, careful not to damage it, and consume it in one big metaphorical gulp. The Magus' body slumps to the floor like a broken doll while you feel his magic flowing through your veins, making you more powerful. It is up to you what to do with the newfound power.
			*choice
				*if (spell_life < 3) #Channel it into your life magic ability
					*set spell_life + 1
					*if spell_life = 1
						You learn a new spell: Heal.
						*page_break
						*goto magus_death
					*elseif spell_life = 2
						You learn a new spell: Avatar.
						*page_break
						*goto magus_death
					*elseif spell_life = 3
						You learn a new spell: Resurrect.
						*page_break
						*goto magus_death
				*if (spell_mind < 3) #Channel it into your mind magic ability
					*set spell_mind + 1
					*if spell_mind = 1
						You learn a new spell: Empathy.
						*page_break
						*goto magus_death
					*elseif spell_mind = 2
						You learn a new spell: Wipe Memory.
						*page_break
						*goto magus_death
					*elseif spell_mind = 3
						You learn a new spell: Dominate.
						*page_break
						*goto magus_death								
				*if (spell_dragon < 3) #Channel it into your dragon magic ability
					*set spell_dragon + 1
					*if spell_dragon = 1
						You learn a new spell: Fury.
						*page_break
						*goto magus_death
					*elseif spell_dragon = 2
						You learn a new spell: DRAGON MAGIC LVL 2.
						*page_break
						*goto magus_death
					*elseif spell_dragon = 3
						You learn a new spell: DRAGON MAGIC LVL 3.
						*page_break
						*goto magus_death						
		*if (spell_life > 1) #Spell: Avatar
			You use your life energy to form an avatar to fight in your place, but the boils on your skin make it hard to concentrate. The spell fizzles as you scream in agony.
			*line_break
			You lose 15 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 15
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death	
			*goto magus_chamber2
		*if (spell_mind > 0) #Spell: Empathy
			You fight through the pain and try to concentrate on the Magus' mind.
			*line_break
			You lose 10 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 10
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death
			*line_break
			As you force yourself into the Magus' thoughts, the meaning of the murals becomes clear to you. They are defensive positions against arcane attacks. The sun, triangle and skull stand for the powers of life, mind and death. The spell the Magus is using is a death spell. Quickly, you cross your arms in front of your chest to ward off the attack. The bubbles vanish from your skin and reappear on the Magus'. He screams in pain.
			*set magus_wounds + 1
			*goto magus_chamber2
		*if (spell_mind > 1) #Spell: Wipe Memory
			You force your way into the Magus' mind while the bubbles on your skin grow larger and more painful.
			*line_break
			You lose 15 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 15
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death
			When you find the source of the Magus' arcane knowledge, you extinguish the memory of magic in his mind altogether. For a moment, he tries to fight you, but your gargoyle ancestry gives you the advantage - from the Magus' perspective, your mind is foreign and impenetrable. After a few seconds, he stops struggling and the magic energy in the room disperses.
			*line_break
			With an angry howl, the Magus jumps at you. He knows you have taken something from him, but not what it was. You show him the thing you have taken is the only power he ever had by grabbing him and throwing him across the room. There is an ugly noise of crushed bones and a large puddle of blood spreads over the floor.
			*goto magus_death
		*if (spell_mind > 2) #Spell: Dominate
			You force your way into the Magus' mind while the bubbles on your skin grow larger and more painful.
			*line_break
			You lose 15 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 15
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death
			His eyes widen in terror as he realizes he's no longer in control of the body that is now stumbling towards the chamber's window. You watch as the old man falls, his screaming suddenly silenced by a satisfying crunch of broken bones.
			*goto magus_death
		#Stretch your arms out
			You stretch your arms out, trying to ignore the pain, but the boils on your skin only grow larger.
			*line_break
			You lose 15 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 15
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death
			*goto magus_chamber2
		#Make a roof over your head with your hands
			You make a roof over your head with your hands, imitating the middle mural, but the boils on your skin grow larger.
			*line_break
			You lose 15 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 15
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death
			*goto magus_chamber2			
		#Cross your arms
			You cross your arms in front of your chest, imitating the third mural. The boils vanish from your skin and reappear on the Magus' skin. He screams in agony.
			*set magus_wounds + 1
			*goto magus_chamber2

*label magus_chamber2
*page_break
The Magus casts another spell.
*if spell_life > 1
	You recognize the incantations for the "Avatar" spell.
A white lion appears out of nowhere, apparently made from pure light.
*choice
	#Attack the Magus
		You throw yourself at the Magus, but the lion steps in your way. With a loud roar, it claws at you and deep cuts appear across your chest.
		You lose 20 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 20
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		*goto magus_chamber3	
	*if (sneak_attack) #Combat Move: Sneak attack			
		You throw yourself at the Magus, but the lion steps in your way. With a loud roar, it claws at you and deep cuts appear across your chest.
		You lose 20 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 20
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		*goto magus_chamber3				
	*if (spell_death > 0) #Spell: Bestow Harm
		You wander the path towards darkness.
		*set darkness %+ 5
		*line_break			
		As you mutter the deadly incantation, the lion roars in fury and claws at you, but it is already leaving the corporeal realm, fading into nothingness.
		You lose 5 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 5
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		*goto magus_chamber3	
	*if (spell_death > 1) #Spell: Absorb Vigor
		You wander the path towards darkness.
		*set darkness %+ 10
		*line_break
		You let dark tendrils shoot from your fingers. The lion claws and bites at them to keep them from hurting the Magus and the two magical evocations nullify each other.
		*set magus_wounds + 1
		*goto magus_chamber3
	*if (spell_death > 2) #Spell: Harvest Soul
		You wander the path towards darkness.
		*set darkness %+ 30
		*line_break
		You reach out for the Magus' soul, ignoring the pathetic cat clawing at your chest.
		*line_break
		You lose 20 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 20
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		As the old man realizes what you are doing, his eyes widen in terror and he recoils from your darkness, but it is of no use. You take his soul, careful not to damage it, and consume it in one big metaphorical gulp. The Magus' body slumps to the floor like a broken doll while you feel his magic flowing through your veins, making you more powerful. It is up to you what to do with the newfound power.
		*choice
			*if (spell_life < 3) #Channel it into your life magic ability
				*set spell_life + 1
				*if (spell_life = 1)
					You learn a new spell: Heal.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death
				*elseif spell_life = 2
					You learn a new spell: Avatar.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death
				*elseif spell_life = 3
					You learn a new spell: Resurrect.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death
			*if (spell_mind < 3) #Channel it into your mind magic ability
				*set spell_mind + 1
				*if spell_mind = 1
					You learn a new spell: Empathy.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death
				*elseif spell_mind = 2
					You learn a new spell: Wipe Memory.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death
				*elseif spell_mind = 3
					You learn a new spell: Dominate.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death								
			*if (spell_dragon < 3) #Channel it into your dragon magic ability
				*set spell_dragon + 1
				*if spell_dragon = 1
					You learn a new spell: Fury.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death
				*elseif spell_dragon = 2
					You learn a new spell: DRAGON MAGIC LVL 2.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death
				*elseif spell_dragon = 3
					You learn a new spell: DRAGON MAGIC LVL 3.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death						
			
	*if (spell_life > 1) #Spell: Avatar
		You lose 5 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 5
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death	
		*line_break
		You use your life energy to create an avatar, a copy of yourself to fight the lion. The supernatural beings glare at each other for a moment, then clash in a ball of searing hot white light and finally vanish.
		*goto magus_chamber3
	*if (spell_mind > 0) #Spell: Empathy
		You try to concentrate on the Magus' mind, ignoring the lion clawing at your chest.
		*line_break
		You lose 10 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 10
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		*line_break
		As you force yourself into the Magus' thoughts, the meaning of the murals becomes clear to you. They are defensive positions against arcane attacks. The sun, triangle and skull stand for the powers of life, mind and death. The spell the Magus is using is a life spell. Quickly, you stretch out your arms to ward of the lion's attack. The magical beast stops its assault and turns on its former master, sinking its teeth into the Magus' arm. He screams in pain.
		*set magus_wounds + 1
		*goto magus_chamber3
	*if (spell_mind > 1) #Spell: Wipe Memory
		You force your way into the Magus' mind while the lion claws at your chest.
		*line_break
		You lose 20 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 20
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		When you find the source of the Magus' arcane knowledge, you extinguish the memory of magic in his mind altogether. For a moment, he tries to fight you, but your gargoyle ancestry gives you the advantage - from the Magus' perspective, your mind is foreign and impenetrable. After a few seconds, he stops struggling and the magic energy in the room disperses.
		*line_break
		With an angry howl, the Magus jumps at you. He knows you have taken something from him, but not what it was. You show him the thing you have taken is the only power he ever had by grabbing him and throwing him across the room. There is an ugly noise of crushed bones and a large puddle of blood spreads over the floor.
		*goto magus_death
	*if (spell_mind > 2) #Spell: Dominate
		You force your way into the Magus' mind while the lion claws at your chest and take over his body.
		*line_break
		You lose 20 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 20
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		His eyes widen in terror as he realizes he's no longer in control of the body that is now stumbling towards the chamber's window. You watch as the old man falls, his screaming suddenly silenced by a satisfying crunch of broken bones.
		*goto magus_death
	#Attack the lion
		You throw yourself at the magical beast, but your weapon passes right through its body. With a roar, the lion claws at you and deep cuts appear across your chest.
		*line_break
		You lose 20 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 20
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		*goto magus_chamber3
	#Stretch your arms out
		You stretch out your arms to ward off the lion's attack. The magical beast stops its assault and turns on its former master, sinking its teeth into the Magus' arm. He screams in pain.
		*set magus_wounds + 1
		*goto magus_chamber3
	#Make a roof over your head with your hands
		You make a roof over your head with your hands, imitating the middle mural, but the lion attacks you nonetheless.
		*line_break
		You lose 20 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 20
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		*goto magus_chamber3			
	#Cross your arms
		You cross your arms in front of your chest, imitating the third mural, but the lion attacks you nonetheless.
		*line_break
		You lose 20 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 20
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		*goto magus_chamber3

*label magus_chamber3
*page_break
*if magus_wounds >= 2
	Finally, the Magus succumbs to his wounds and slumps to the ground, dead.
	*goto magus_death
The Magus casts another spell and flames spring up around you, searing your flesh.
You lose 25 Hitpoints.
*set health - 25
*if health <= 0
	*goto death
*comment @todo: wounds for fire
*choice
	#Try to put out the flames
		You scramble to put out the flames, but they are magical and can only be extinguished by magic. Your body is consumed by the fire.
		*goto death
	#Attack the Magus
		You swing at the Magus, but it is hard to orient yourself in the smoke and heat. You stumble around, looking for the Magus, until you succumb to your burns.
		*goto death
	*if (sneak_attack) #Combat Move: Sneak attack			
		You throw yourself at the Magus through the flames, ignoring the searing pain.
		*line_break
		You lose 10 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 10
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		*line_break
		As you smash into the Magus, shattering his ribs and breaking his neck, the flames vanish.
		*goto magus_death
	*if (spell_death > 0) #Spell: Bestow Harm
		You wander the path towards darkness.
		*set darkness %+ 5
		*line_break			
		As you mutter the deadly incantation, the flames are licking at your skin, burning you.
		*line_break
		You lose 5 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 5
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		*line_break
		The Magus screams in pain as the boils consume his skin and leave only a heap of bones and rotting flesh. The flames vanish.
		*goto magus_death
	*if (spell_death > 1) #Spell: Absorb Vigor
		You wander the path towards darkness.
		*set darkness %+ 10
		*line_break
		You let dark tendrils shoot from your fingers. The flames recoil from your dark power and the Magus can only scream as the tendrils envelop him and suck the life from his body.
		*goto magus_death
	*if (spell_death > 2) #Spell: Harvest Soul
		You wander the path towards darkness.
		*set darkness %+ 30
		*line_break
		You reach out for the Magus' soul, ignoring the flames licking at your skin.
		*line_break
		You lose 5 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 5
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		As the old man realizes what you are doing, his eyes widen in terror and he recoils from your darkness, but it is of no use. You take his soul, careful not to damage it, and consume it in one big metaphorical gulp. The Magus' body slumps to the floor like a broken doll while you feel his magic flowing through your veins, making you more powerful. It is up to you what to do with the newfound power.
		*choice
			*if (spell_life < 3) #Channel it into your life magic ability
				*set spell_life + 1
				*if spell_life = 1
					You learn a new spell: Heal.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death
				*elseif spell_life = 2
					You learn a new spell: Avatar.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death
				*elseif spell_life = 3
					You learn a new spell: Resurrect.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death
			*if (spell_mind < 3) #Channel it into your mind magic ability
				*set spell_mind + 1
				*if spell_mind = 1
					You learn a new spell: Empathy.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death
				*elseif spell_mind = 2
					You learn a new spell: Wipe Memory.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death
				*elseif spell_mind = 3
					You learn a new spell: Dominate.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death								
			*if (spell_dragon < 3) #Channel it into your dragon magic ability
				*set spell_dragon + 1
				*if spell_dragon = 1
					You learn a new spell: Fury.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death
				*elseif spell_dragon = 2
					You learn a new spell: DRAGON MAGIC LVL 2.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death
				*elseif spell_dragon = 3
					You learn a new spell: DRAGON MAGIC LVL 3.
					*page_break
					*goto magus_death						
			
	*if (spell_life > 1) #Spell: Avatar
		You lose 5 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 5
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death	
		*line_break
		You use your life energy to create an avatar, a copy of yourself to protect you from the flames. A cool breeze soothes the wound on your skin as the avatar strides through the flames and kills the Magus with a single blow.
		*goto magus_death
	*if (spell_mind > 0) #Spell: Empathy
		You try to concentrate on the Magus' mind, ignoring the searing flames. It is surprisingly easy to force your way into the Magus thoughts, almost as if the Magus was inviting you inside his skull. As your mind arrives, it finds only a singular, hateful thought: 
		*line_break
		<<BURN, GARGOYLE, BURN>>.
		*goto death
	*if (spell_mind > 1) #Spell: Wipe Memory
		You force your way into the Magus' mind while the flames lick at your skin.
		*line_break
		You lose 5 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 5
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		When you find the source of the Magus' arcane knowledge, you extinguish the memory of magic in his mind altogether. For a moment, he tries to fight you, but your gargoyle ancestry gives you the advantage - from the Magus' perspective, your mind is foreign and impenetrable. After a few seconds, he stops struggling and the magic energy in the room disperses.
		*line_break
		With an angry howl, the Magus jumps at you. He knows you have taken something from him, but not what it was. You show him the thing you have taken is the only power he ever had by grabbing him and throwing him across the room. There is an ugly noise of crushed bones and a large puddle of blood spreads over the floor.
		*goto magus_death
	*if (spell_mind > 2) #Spell: Dominate
		You force your way into the Magus' mind while the flames lick at your skin and take over his body.
		*line_break
		You lose 5 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 5
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		His eyes widen in terror as he realizes he's no longer in control of the body that is now stumbling towards the chamber's window. You watch as the old man falls, his screaming suddenly silenced by a satisfying crunch of broken bones.
		*goto magus_death
	#Stretch your arms out
		You stretch out your arms, imitating the first mural, but the fire just continues to burn, growing hotter and hotter until it consumes you.
		*goto death
	#Make a roof over your head with your hands
		You make a roof over your head with your hands, imitating the middle mural, but the fire just continues to burn, growing hotter and hotter until it consumes you.
		*goto death		
	#Cross your arms
		You cross your arms in front of your chest, imitating the third mural, but the fire just continues to burn, growing hotter and hotter until it consumes you.
		*goto death

*label magus_death
After defeating the Magus, it would probably be best to rejoin Wolfgang and his men now, but you could also look around the Magus' chamber for treasure.
*choice
	#Look for treasure
		You find some valuable trinkets that are small enough to fit into your pouch. You should be able to sell them for a profit later.
		*set wealth + 15
		*goto tower_taken
	#Rejoin the battle
		*goto tower_taken

*label tower_taken
As you leave through the chamber door, an arcane glyph begins to glow on the archway and you hear the Magus' disembodied voice. "I anticipated your betrayal, Gargoyle. As a last gift from me, know this: I curse you to never find a home, no matter where you go."
*line_break
A shiver runs down your spine.
*set cursed true
*finish

*label attack_on_the_duke
On your way to storm the inner castle, you are met by an excursion of the Duke's troops. The fighting in the dark quickly becomes confusing for the human soldiers. Fortunately, you can see in the dark and are able to tell the factions apart.
*choice
	#Fight on your own
		Using your dark sight and superior strength, you wreak havoc among the enemy soldiers. Unfortunately, the rest of your army does not fare so well. The Duke's troops are forced to retreat towards the inner castle, but many of your men are lying on the ground, dead or dying.
		*set army_diminished true
		*goto inner_castle_siege
	#Command the troops from the air
		You deftly climb a nearby building to gain height, then soar above the battlefield, shouting commands to your troops and giving away the position of your enemies. With this advantage, your men quickly drive the defenders back towards the castle.
		*if (flight > 30)
			As you are preparing to land among your troops, you hear a hissing sound. In a daring maneuver, you let yourself plummet towards the ground, narrowly evading an arrow, then catch yourself and glide down smoothly. Your men cheer and charge towards the castle with renewed morale.
			*goto inner_castle_siege
		*else
			As you are preparing to land among your troops, you hear a hissing sound. You try to evade the oncoming arrow, but react too slow. The arrowtip pierces your shoulder, sending you plummeting to the ground, where your fall is broken by some wooden crates.
			*line_break
			You lose 30 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 30
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death
			You manage to get up with Wolfgang's help and limp towards the inner castle after your troops.
			*goto inner_castle_siege
	#Support the troops with your magic
		*choice
			*if (spell_life > 0) #Heal your soldiers with your Healing Spell
				You wander the path towards light.
				*set darkness %- 10
				*line_break
				Thanks to your support, Wolfgang's troops prevail and manage to drive the defenders back towards the inner castle. The healing has taken a toll on your body though.
				*line_break
				You lose 15 Hitpoints.
				*set health - 15
				*if health <= 0
					*goto death	
				*goto inner_castle_siege
			*if (spell_life > 1) #Create an avatar from your lifeforce to lead your men into battle
				You wander the path towards light.
				*set darkness %- 20
				*line_break
				A huge gargoyle made out of pure light springs up from the ground, drawing energy from your life force.
				*line_break
				You lose 15 Hitpoints.
				*set health - 15
				*if health <= 0
					*goto death
				*line_break
				Led by this celestial creature, your men easily drive back the defenders towards the castle. You notice Wolfgang shielding his eyes from your creation and staying as far away from it as possible.
				*goto inner_castle_siege
			*if (spell_life > 2) #Ressurect fallen soldiers on your side
				You wander the path towards light.
				*set darkness %- 30
				*line_break
				Whenever one of your soldiers falls, you pick them up again, infusing them with your own lifeforce to give them new life.
				*line_break
				You lose 20 Hitpoints.
				*set health - 20
				*if health <= 0
					*goto death
				*line_break
				The onslaught of what amounts to an army of immortal warriors demoralizes the enemy troops and the few soldiers still standing after the initial fighting quickly surrender. With his army defeated, the duke has no choice but to give himself up.
				*goto inner_castle_taken
			*if (spell_mind > 2) #Control the opposing forces with your mind, making them fight against each other
				You tap into the brains of the enemy soldiers, taking ther wills and molding them like soft clay. Soon, they are fighting each other and your troops easily subdue them. As the spell fades, you retain the voices of the fallen soldiers in your mind, blabbering at you in the unintelligible tongue of the dead. You try to drown them out, but don't succeed completely.
				*line_break
				Your wits decrease.
				*set wits %- 10
				*line_break
				With his army defeated, the duke has no choice but to give himself up.
				*goto attackers_triumph
			#Pretend to be doing magic to frighten the enemy troops
				You wave your arms threateningly and mutter nonsensical syllables under your breath, but the enemy fighters don't seem to be very impressed by your show. Wolfgang's army takes heavy losses and to make matters worse, a defending archer fires at you and hits your shoulder.
				*set army_diminished true
				*line_break
				You lose 20 Hitpoints.
				*set health - 20
				*if health <= 0
					*goto death			
				Finally, the enemy is driven back towards the inner castle.
				*goto inner_castle_siege

*label inner_castle_siege
*page_break
You lay siege on the inner castle. How do you want to procede?
*choice
	#Negotiate
		The duke agrees to negotiations, but only if you come into the inner castle, alone and unarmed.
		*choice
			#Agreed.
				You meet the duke in the yard of the inner castle. He is unarmed as well, but protected by a guard of four elite swordfighters. In addition, two crossbow archers aim at you from the castle wall.
				"What do you propose, traitor?" The duke glares at you.
				*choice
					#"You have no chance against our forces. Better surrender now and save the lives of the men you have left."
						"There will be no surrender on our part. However, I am willing to pay your general a handsome sum if he retreats."
						*line_break
						Unfortunately for the duke, this is not an option, especially since you know his coffers to be empty.
						*goto declined
					#Kill the duke
						You jump at the duke, only to be killed by his guard. Also, you lose 30 wits.
						*goto death
					*if (wits > 10) #"Surrender now and we will let your daughter live."
						At the mention of his child's name, the duke turns pale. "I will surrender under the condition that none of my men or the castle's other inhabitants will be harmed."
						*choice
							#Agree
								The duke and his troops surrender and you walk them out the gate.
								*goto inner_castle_taken
							#Decline
								*goto declined
					*if (spell_mind > 2) #Spell: Dominate
						"You will surrender" You tell the duke in a calm voice, reaching deep within his mind and quenching all resistance.
						*line_break
						"We will surrender" The duke repeats, his eyes dull. Then he looks around, confused, and his eyes clear up. "We've come to an agreement" He announces to his men. "Lay down your weapons, I've negotiated the terms for our surrender." The troops seem unsure, but they don't question the duke's orders.
						*goto inner_castle_taken
			#No, infiltrate the inner castle by air instead
				*goto infiltrate
	#Infiltrate the inner castle by air to let your men in
		*goto infiltrate
		
*label infiltrate
You fly to a remote corner of the wall. Only two guards are stationed here, with the main force on the wall your army is besieging with a hail of arrows to cover your approach.
*choice
	#Try to get as close as possible without being seen
		*if flight > 30
			Stealthily, you glide over their heads, then swoop in from behind. When they notice you, it is too late: You run one through with your ${weapon}, then kick the other one from the wall, where he plummets to his death with a muffled scream.
			*goto infiltrated
		*if flight <= 30
			You try to glide over their heads unseen, but the sound of the wind on your wings is too loud. They notice you and open fire with their crossbows. One of them hits you and you plummet down, hitting the wall hard just a few feet away from the soldiers.
			*line_break
			You lose 15 Hitpoints.
			*set health - 15
			*if health <= 0
				*goto death
			*line_break
			As you get up, the soldiers draw swords and ready themselves for combat.
			*goto infiltrating_fight
		*goto infiltrated
	#Fly towards them in open sight
		As the soldiers see you approach, they seem relieved. "${Name}, thank god you're here. We can really use your assistance."
		*choice
			#Throw them off the wall
				You charge at them, but they react quickly. Drawing their swords, they evade your attack and ready themselves for combat.
				*goto infiltrating_fight
			*if (sneak_attack) #Combat Move: Sneak attack
				They never see your attack coming. As one of the guards looks away for an instant, you send the other one flying off the wall, then run the remaining man through with your ${weapon}.
				*goto infiltrated
			*if (tailswipe) #Combat Move: Tailswipe
				With a fast spin, you bring your tail up and send the two guards flying over the wall.
				*goto infiltrated
			*if (flurry) #Combat Move: Flurry
				You draw your weapon and quickly kill one of the guards with fast strikes, then drive the other one to the edge and send him to his death with a well-placed kick.
				*goto infiltrated
			*if (spell_mind > 1) #Spell: Wipe Memory
				You reach into the guards minds and extinguish their memory of your meeting. Dazed, they turn around and yre on their way.
				*goto infiltrated
			*if (spell_mind > 2) #Spell: Dominate
				"You will open the gate doors" You tell the guards in a calm voice, reaching deep within their minds and quenching all resistance.
				*line_break
				"We will open the gate doors" They repeat as one, their eyes dull. Then they are off into the night to fulfill your command.
				*page_break
				After a short while, you hear a rattle as the chains holding up the draw bridge are released. The ensuing battle is over quickly, as Wolfgang's forces diminish the remaining defenders and force the duke to surrender.
				*goto attackers_triumph
	*if (flying_dive) #Combat maneuver: Dive
		You swoop down from behind the guards, your arms spread wide. Before they realize what hit them, they are plummeting to their deaths off the wall.
		*goto infiltrated
*label infiltrating_fight
*choice
	#Charge at them
		You throw yourself at them, furiously hacking away at their limbs with your ${weapon}, but they defend themselves.
		*line_break
		You lose 20 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 20
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		In the end, you kill them both.
		*goto infiltrated
	*if (flurry) #Combat move: Flurry
		You draw your weapon and quickly kill one of the guards with fast strikes, then drive the other one to the edge and send him to his death with a well-placed kick.
		*goto infiltrated
	*if (tailswipe) #Combat move: Tailswipe
		With a fast spin, you bring your tail up and send the two guards flying over the wall.
		*goto infiltrated
	*if (spell_death > 0) #Spell: Bestow Harm
		You wander the path towards darkness.
		*set darkness %+ 10
		*line_break
		You mutter the ancient incantations and one of the guards drops to his knees, letting out a loud howl of agony. The other one hesitates and you rush forward, knocking him over the wall before killing his companion.
		*goto infiltrated
	*if (spell_death > 1) #Spell: Absorb Vigor
		You wander the path towards darkness.
		*set darkness %+ 20
		*line_break
		You concentrate on the life force of the enemy soldiers, then draw it towards you. Black Tentacles appear to spring from your fingers and envelop the defenders. You feel their strength dwindling until they drop to the ground immediately, unconcious. You throw them over the wall.
		*goto infiltrated
	*if (spell_dragon > 0) #Spell: Fury
		You call on a splinter of rage inside your soul and expand it, bringing its energy to the outside world and letting it consume your mind. Deep hatred for your enemies consumes you. With incredible speed and strength, and no regard for your own safety, you propel yourself forward to meet the attackers.
		*line_break
		As the rage subsides, the guards lie at the foot of the castle wall, bones broken and skulls smashed. Symmetric scars cover your chest, forming a pattern that looks almost like teeth.
		*line_break
		You lose 5 Hitpoints.
		*set health - 5
		*if health <= 0
			*goto death
		*goto infiltrated
*label infiltrated
*line_break
Quickly, you make your way to the gate house and release the chains holding up the draw bridge. The ensuing battle is over quickly, as Wolfgang's forces diminish the remaining defenders and force the duke to surrender.
*goto attackers_triumph

*label declined
With negotiations failed, you return to your men. It seems you will have to infiltrate the castle by air.
*page_break
*goto infiltrate

*label inner_castle_taken
*label defend_the_duke
*label defend_the_magus
*label attackers_triumph
*label defenders_triumph
*finish

*label death
*page_break
There it is. Death. You did not think it would feel this hollow.
*finish