The Stuck Door

From somewhere outside the castle, Andrea hears a loud, low humming sound, like that of a large bumblebee. She runs toward the direction of the sound. The sound is coming from the other side of a large door. The door was once painted white, but paint has peeled from it in long strips, revealing a gray wood. She tries to open the door, but it is stuck fast. She places her palms against the door, squares her shoulders, and pushes with all her strength. After three tries, she succeeds in budging the door a little. She can fit her hand through the crack between the door and the wall. The low, humming sound suddenly stops. Andrea rests against the door, exhausted and sore. The door is still resisting, and she does not have the strength for a further effort.

Suddenly, the door flies open. Andrea's heart skips a beat. She whirls around, her arm reaching for her sword. On the other side of the door is a spacious balcony leading outside, overlooking the courtyard. On the other side of the door, Andrea sees the source of the low, humming noise.

1. It is a larger version of the dragon in the figurine, about half as large again as Andrea. The dragon bows its head, and says, "Mistress, I am called Kit. Please do not fear me. How may I be of service?"
2. It is a mechanical device. The device appears to be an elaborate arrangement of pullies and ropes. Attached to one of the ropes overhanging the courtyard is a basket, just beyond the balcony.

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