Game Play Revision (Scripting Points - Action Scenarios - Puzzles Defined) Setting the stage:
"We have finally arrived." The old man sighs as the steep trail finally ends at the base of steps that ascend to weathered gatehouse. Just beyond the gatehouse, a large structure with religious characteristics rises against the sheer wall of the mountain. "What do we do now?" Louis asked. "That is a very good question my friend, and that is precisely the question I brought you to answer."
The old man turns and peers at Louis. It had not taken Louis long to question the man's mental stability. Velasquez himself had indicated that he was suffering from a debilitating disease. As they were traveling together, Louis often heard him mumbling to himself. Usually something about running out of time and not remembering. Had Velasquez not paid him an absurd amount of money in advance to secure his services, Louis would not have even considered the Velasquez's proposal. Now Louis was extremely wealthy. He would be even wealthier once he completed this 'archeological' expedition and received his final payment.
Right now he was in a tremendously advantageous position. He had to endure a number of competitors to obtain the opportunity. He underwent numerous intelligence tests and IQ evaluations. His personal background was completely researched. After making it through the extensive intellectual evaluations, then he found himself surprised to be subjected to a very strenuous physical exam. Many of his competitors were members of the military and professional athletes. Louis exercised on a regular basis and had always enjoyed good health. However, he was almost certain that he could not compete against those that we're in exceptional shape and had undergone tremendous training. Louis was still surprised that he had been selected. In addition, he was not quite sure why physical fitness had anything to do with the expedition. Their journey to the high mountain monastery was not easy by any means, but the old man was the only element that was slowing them down. His pace made it a leisurely excursion for Louis. Regardless of Velasquez's motivations or reasons, they had arrived.
Somewhere high in the Tibetan Himalayas this monastery had existed for many years. It appeared in many ways what you would expect from an Asian monastery, yet there were other characteristics that did not fit. Something about the architecture seemed out of place. The area overall was very lush and green which Louis found surprising this high. The monks who inhabited the grounds were the very definition of reclusive. Velasquez had said that it was very difficult for him to obtain admittance to the monastery to do his research. Initially the chief monks would not even respond or receive requests for an outsider to have access to their grounds. Velasquez smiled within himself. Everyone has a price, even those who value nothing. Velasquez patted the package tucked safely under his arm.
They began to ascend the steps to the large wooden doors of the gatehouse. "You my friend have been brought here to help me find the final piece of a puzzle. Alexander the Great made it this far, even a little farther in fact. He just didn't know what to do with what he found." Velasquez began to elaborate. "I have been able to determine, ... years and years lost, searching for what I forgot, what an irony, to know so much and not be able recall it... oh, sorry, what was I saying. Yes, I have been able to determine that what I seek is here. However it is hidden. Those who created it left the key to finding it here, but you have to know what you're looking for to even begin." "What are we looking for?" Louis inquired. Velasquez began to laugh. He cackled enough to make Louis really start questioning his mental stability. He eyes began to echo a look of frenzy. He turned and smiled deviously at Louis while he hissed "What else would an old man like myself be looking for? My mind and body are failing, even more rapidly than is natural. Some well hidden genetic defect. Somehow there always does seem to be a force making sure we get what we deserve. Regardless of that, I've always been able to cheat death. I don't intend for that change now after so many years. Louis, you're going to help me find the fountain of youth." Louis laughed. He stopped when the look in Velasquez's eyes told him that he was serious. "You've got to be kidding me!" Louis gasped. He restrained himself from responding any further. Velasquez had paid him enough for him to pretend that the old man was sane even if he was out his mind. Velasquez laughed under his breath. "Don't worry. I know what you're thinking. I've spent an enormous amount of time and money to find a mythical magic puddle of water. You'll understand soon enough. I may be losing my mind, but I haven't lost it yet. I have no allusions of magic water. You will find the puddle for me though, and then you will understand." Velasquez laughed. "Poor Alexander soaked himself for days. He never figured it out."
They reached the doors to the gatehouse. Velasquez raised his walking stick and rapped against the large door 3 times. They waited for sometime until finally one of the doors pulled back. A very old monk with a long beard, weathered skin, and drooping eyes stepped from behind the door and pushed it open. Velasquez whispered: "These mountain monks are 'vocally' celibate'. In other words they don't speak. However, their fluency in understanding multiple languages is quite surprising." The monk was flanked by 3 larger monks wearing hooded robes. He stood staring ominously at Velasquez as if waiting for him. Velasquez lifted the package underneath his arm and began to unwrap it gently. He exposed an egg shaped cylinder with curious markings. It appeared to be made of ivory or some sort of ceramic. Whatever it was, it was old. It was a very odd looking container, but its curious characteristics were quickly forgotten as Louis studied the strange electronic device that was attached by metal bands that wrapped around the container in multiple locations and directions. The device itself had a simple LCD that looked to be nothing more than a timer. It read "13:39:02" and was steadily decreasing. Louis did not know for sure, but it looked like some kind of explosive. "As long as things proceed exactly as we agreed upon, we will both obtain what we want... intact." The Monk looked at Louis as if comprehending something. He then looked back at Velasquez. He stared at him for what seemed like an eternity and then bowed his head and then motioned with his hand for them to enter. Louis and Velasquez passed through the doors which lead into what appeared to be a short tunnel. As the passed through the tunnel, a beautiful landscape opened up before them. Lush gardens and well groomed flower beds covered the land before. Louis could hear the rush of water in the distance. There were various waterfalls that seemed to pour from the face of the rock walls. The continuous supply of water undoubtedly fed the foliage that was present everywhere. Flanked by the large court yard was the impressive sanctuary. For its age, it seemed in remarkably good condition. It was apparent that it received continuous attention and maintenance. The surrounding edifices were in a similar pristine state. It appeared to be a miniature paradise in every aspect. There were small gazebos and pavilions through out the garden areas. A few were occupied by monks who were studying and meditating. The gate house spread out behind them. It appeared to be some sort of a make shift barn and corral. There were numerous livestock house in various compartments. They walked in the direction of the sanctuary and stopped after a few feet. Behind them the old monk nodded to the other monks and they dispersed in separate directions. The old monk then stood and stared at Louis for a long time. His eyes were piercing and they seemed to bore into him as if trying to discover something hidden. It made Louis extremely uncomfortable. "We have limited time. I suggest you learn to ignore the monks as they will only serve as distractions." Velasquez said. "They do not want us here. It was more difficult than you can possibly imagine acquiring unlimited access to the grounds. They intentionally prevent anyone from finding what we are about to search for. Although I've negotiated temporary permission for us to look for the water, do not be surprised if they try to thwart our efforts. Now, take this." Velasquez handed Louis a small vinyl pouch attached to a dangling shoulder pack. It was extremely heavy. "Be discreet, but keep it with you. You may need it." Louis lifted the flap of the pouch and saw the sun reflect off the back of a cold steel pistol. "What is this for?!" Louis gasped. "Just in case, just it case Louis. Put it away before you draw attention to it." Louis quickly put the strap over his shoulder and tucked the pouch underneath the base of his coat. "Like I said, we do not have much time. I've brought you to be my hound. You'll be able to see, find, and reach things that I am not capable of. I will direct you and provide you with the information that you need to make progress. You must use all haste. I own you for the next 24 hours. You will not rest, you will not sleep, and you will not do anything except what I ask of you. Is that understood?" Louis nodded. They had been over this before. During the Journey Velasquez had continually reiterated the terms of their agreement. Velasquez was abrasive, but the pay for the job was more than adequate to make it worthwhile. "Just tell me where to start." Louis said void of emotion. "Good. So we begin then. Listen closely. The ancient who built the foundations of this sanctuary left behind a path to guide himself back to our 'fountain of youth.'" Velasquez pulled from a bag an elliptical disk. It reminded Louis of an Aztec Calendar, but the symbols and figures were not Aztec. The disk appeared to be made of some kind of metal. It was discolored and oxidized somewhat, but the characters that existed on both faces were raised. "This brought us here. Now we must pass some sort of test before we gain entrance to the fountain. It is unclear on exactly where to get started, so I'll give you what I have and you will find it. Here is your first piece of the puzzle. Two eggs, a barren sun, a lost root, the beginning."
To define/finalize:
Preliminary Search
Garden Bell Tower
Sanctuary Archives Gate
Waterfall
Fountain Cavern
"We have finally arrived." The old man sighs as the steep trail finally ends at the base of steps that ascend to weathered gatehouse. Just beyond the gatehouse, a large structure with religious characteristics rises against the sheer wall of the mountain. "What do we do now?" Louis asked. "That is a very good question my friend, and that is precisely the question I brought you to answer."
The old man turns and peers at Louis. It had not taken Louis long to question the man's mental stability. Velasquez himself had indicated that he was suffering from a debilitating disease. As they were traveling together, Louis often heard him mumbling to himself. Usually something about running out of time and not remembering. Had Velasquez not paid him an absurd amount of money in advance to secure his services, Louis would not have even considered the Velasquez's proposal. Now Louis was extremely wealthy. He would be even wealthier once he completed this 'archeological' expedition and received his final payment.
Right now he was in a tremendously advantageous position. He had to endure a number of competitors to obtain the opportunity. He underwent numerous intelligence tests and IQ evaluations. His personal background was completely researched. After making it through the extensive intellectual evaluations, then he found himself surprised to be subjected to a very strenuous physical exam. Many of his competitors were members of the military and professional athletes. Louis exercised on a regular basis and had always enjoyed good health. However, he was almost certain that he could not compete against those that we're in exceptional shape and had undergone tremendous training. Louis was still surprised that he had been selected. In addition, he was not quite sure why physical fitness had anything to do with the expedition. Their journey to the high mountain monastery was not easy by any means, but the old man was the only element that was slowing them down. His pace made it a leisurely excursion for Louis. Regardless of Velasquez's motivations or reasons, they had arrived.
Somewhere high in the Tibetan Himalayas this monastery had existed for many years. It appeared in many ways what you would expect from an Asian monastery, yet there were other characteristics that did not fit. Something about the architecture seemed out of place. The area overall was very lush and green which Louis found surprising this high. The monks who inhabited the grounds were the very definition of reclusive. Velasquez had said that it was very difficult for him to obtain admittance to the monastery to do his research. Initially the chief monks would not even respond or receive requests for an outsider to have access to their grounds. Velasquez smiled within himself. Everyone has a price, even those who value nothing. Velasquez patted the package tucked safely under his arm.
They began to ascend the steps to the large wooden doors of the gatehouse. "You my friend have been brought here to help me find the final piece of a puzzle. Alexander the Great made it this far, even a little farther in fact. He just didn't know what to do with what he found." Velasquez began to elaborate. "I have been able to determine, ... years and years lost, searching for what I forgot, what an irony, to know so much and not be able recall it... oh, sorry, what was I saying. Yes, I have been able to determine that what I seek is here. However it is hidden. Those who created it left the key to finding it here, but you have to know what you're looking for to even begin." "What are we looking for?" Louis inquired. Velasquez began to laugh. He cackled enough to make Louis really start questioning his mental stability. He eyes began to echo a look of frenzy. He turned and smiled deviously at Louis while he hissed "What else would an old man like myself be looking for? My mind and body are failing, even more rapidly than is natural. Some well hidden genetic defect. Somehow there always does seem to be a force making sure we get what we deserve. Regardless of that, I've always been able to cheat death. I don't intend for that change now after so many years. Louis, you're going to help me find the fountain of youth." Louis laughed. He stopped when the look in Velasquez's eyes told him that he was serious. "You've got to be kidding me!" Louis gasped. He restrained himself from responding any further. Velasquez had paid him enough for him to pretend that the old man was sane even if he was out his mind. Velasquez laughed under his breath. "Don't worry. I know what you're thinking. I've spent an enormous amount of time and money to find a mythical magic puddle of water. You'll understand soon enough. I may be losing my mind, but I haven't lost it yet. I have no allusions of magic water. You will find the puddle for me though, and then you will understand." Velasquez laughed. "Poor Alexander soaked himself for days. He never figured it out."
They reached the doors to the gatehouse. Velasquez raised his walking stick and rapped against the large door 3 times. They waited for sometime until finally one of the doors pulled back. A very old monk with a long beard, weathered skin, and drooping eyes stepped from behind the door and pushed it open. Velasquez whispered: "These mountain monks are 'vocally' celibate'. In other words they don't speak. However, their fluency in understanding multiple languages is quite surprising." The monk was flanked by 3 larger monks wearing hooded robes. He stood staring ominously at Velasquez as if waiting for him. Velasquez lifted the package underneath his arm and began to unwrap it gently. He exposed an egg shaped cylinder with curious markings. It appeared to be made of ivory or some sort of ceramic. Whatever it was, it was old. It was a very odd looking container, but its curious characteristics were quickly forgotten as Louis studied the strange electronic device that was attached by metal bands that wrapped around the container in multiple locations and directions. The device itself had a simple LCD that looked to be nothing more than a timer. It read "13:39:02" and was steadily decreasing. Louis did not know for sure, but it looked like some kind of explosive. "As long as things proceed exactly as we agreed upon, we will both obtain what we want... intact." The Monk looked at Louis as if comprehending something. He then looked back at Velasquez. He stared at him for what seemed like an eternity and then bowed his head and then motioned with his hand for them to enter. Louis and Velasquez passed through the doors which lead into what appeared to be a short tunnel. As the passed through the tunnel, a beautiful landscape opened up before them. Lush gardens and well groomed flower beds covered the land before. Louis could hear the rush of water in the distance. There were various waterfalls that seemed to pour from the face of the rock walls. The continuous supply of water undoubtedly fed the foliage that was present everywhere. Flanked by the large court yard was the impressive sanctuary. For its age, it seemed in remarkably good condition. It was apparent that it received continuous attention and maintenance. The surrounding edifices were in a similar pristine state. It appeared to be a miniature paradise in every aspect. There were small gazebos and pavilions through out the garden areas. A few were occupied by monks who were studying and meditating. The gate house spread out behind them. It appeared to be some sort of a make shift barn and corral. There were numerous livestock house in various compartments. They walked in the direction of the sanctuary and stopped after a few feet. Behind them the old monk nodded to the other monks and they dispersed in separate directions. The old monk then stood and stared at Louis for a long time. His eyes were piercing and they seemed to bore into him as if trying to discover something hidden. It made Louis extremely uncomfortable. "We have limited time. I suggest you learn to ignore the monks as they will only serve as distractions." Velasquez said. "They do not want us here. It was more difficult than you can possibly imagine acquiring unlimited access to the grounds. They intentionally prevent anyone from finding what we are about to search for. Although I've negotiated temporary permission for us to look for the water, do not be surprised if they try to thwart our efforts. Now, take this." Velasquez handed Louis a small vinyl pouch attached to a dangling shoulder pack. It was extremely heavy. "Be discreet, but keep it with you. You may need it." Louis lifted the flap of the pouch and saw the sun reflect off the back of a cold steel pistol. "What is this for?!" Louis gasped. "Just in case, just it case Louis. Put it away before you draw attention to it." Louis quickly put the strap over his shoulder and tucked the pouch underneath the base of his coat. "Like I said, we do not have much time. I've brought you to be my hound. You'll be able to see, find, and reach things that I am not capable of. I will direct you and provide you with the information that you need to make progress. You must use all haste. I own you for the next 24 hours. You will not rest, you will not sleep, and you will not do anything except what I ask of you. Is that understood?" Louis nodded. They had been over this before. During the Journey Velasquez had continually reiterated the terms of their agreement. Velasquez was abrasive, but the pay for the job was more than adequate to make it worthwhile. "Just tell me where to start." Louis said void of emotion. "Good. So we begin then. Listen closely. The ancient who built the foundations of this sanctuary left behind a path to guide himself back to our 'fountain of youth.'" Velasquez pulled from a bag an elliptical disk. It reminded Louis of an Aztec Calendar, but the symbols and figures were not Aztec. The disk appeared to be made of some kind of metal. It was discolored and oxidized somewhat, but the characters that existed on both faces were raised. "This brought us here. Now we must pass some sort of test before we gain entrance to the fountain. It is unclear on exactly where to get started, so I'll give you what I have and you will find it. Here is your first piece of the puzzle. Two eggs, a barren sun, a lost root, the beginning."
To define/finalize:
Preliminary Search
Garden Bell Tower
Sanctuary Archives Gate
Waterfall
Fountain Cavern
posted by Brett at 3:26 PM
1 Comments:
WOW! The story really flows. Great description on the grounds. Characters seem solid and interesting. What a great beginning (or background) to your game! I am really impressed but not surprised. I told you that you WERE a writer. :)
Jen
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