Ancient dust billows in the air as a section of stone grinds itself aside. You both stare down a short passageway. A strong odor of chemicals wafts through the hall.
“You first,” you start to say, before realizing that Charles is already down the hall. You rush to follow him, not wanting to be alone in this castle.
The hall empties into a massive laboratory, reminiscent of a classic mad scientist’s haven. Beakers and test tubes of all shapes and sizes hold chemicals and
concoctions of seemingly infinite colors, temperatures, and textures. Bunsen Burners flare unattended, and two spires, topped with sparking electrodes, tower in
the highest alcove of the lab. An endless array of mechanical gadgets and tools lay scattered about the tables and floor. You hear a clanking of nails against metal in
the corner, where a large mesh cage lies recessed in the shadow. A large circular area in the center is marked in chalk, with a simple clay jar resting in its center.
An ancient leather tome rests open on an ebony pedestal within the chalk circle.
“Wow!” You’re amazed at the detail, if not the aroma.
“Phenomenal,” Charles whispers. He scans the room in wonder, mentally playing with every newfound gizmo.