The Nobleman Retort -clymenia- (QUICK × 2025)

The Nobleman Retort — Clymenia

Clymenia stood framed in the doorway of the study, moonlight washing the lacquered floor in a silver-pale band. Her gown, the color of steeped ink, hung softly from narrow shoulders; a single braid of hair fell over one collarbone like a dark rope. She moved with the quiet confidence of someone who had spent equal parts of her life at court and in libraries — learned enough to know the limits of learning, practiced enough in politeness to make sharpness taste like civility.

“My lord,” she said, voice smooth as spun glass. The baritone voice from the armchair offered no greeting in return; Lord Haversham remained half-turned, chin resting on a hand, a book splayed across his knees. He had the air of a man who placed wagers on people as much as on horses. Tonight, his cigar burned down to a quiet orange, haloing his profile.

Lord Haversham lowered the book with theatrical slowness. “Clymenia,” he mused, “you wear midnight as if it were a new invention. It flatters you.”

“I wear it because daylight shows the small things you hide.” She closed the door behind her and crossed the room without haste. “You offered me a bargain this afternoon — your ear in exchange for my silence. Which of us counted the cost?”

He smiled, small and without warmth. “Costs are for those who cannot see the future. I merely rearranged present inconveniences.”

She halted two paces away. “Then let us speak of inconveniences.” Clymenia rested her gloved fingers lightly upon the mantle, eyes fixed on the ornate clock that sounded the hour. “You presume I’d be grateful for silence bought with patronage. You presume my gratitude because you can buy most things with coins and titles. But you forget that silence is not always a thing to be owned. Sometimes it is a debt — and debts have a way of being repaid.”

A curl of smoke beat the air between them as Haversham exhaled. “Are you threatening me, my dear? That would be impolite.”

“It would be truthful,” she answered. “You confide in confidants who are too eager to profit from whisperings. You believe your influence extends into rooms where it does not. You place your faith in the correctness of your own counsel and confuse it with omniscience. The city hums with small betrayals; you have been deaf to their tune.”

He inclined his head like a man listening to pleasant music. “And you—what is your evidence? Rumor? The murmurs of a disappointed suitor? Or a bookish imagination lining itself with scandal?”

Clymenia’s eyes cooled, not unkindly but with the precision of someone dissecting a stubborn argument. “Evidence, my lord, is not always a trophy to be paraded; often it is a needle threaded through patterns only visible to patient hands. I have met the needle. I have traced the thread. Your steward’s accounts, which you entrusted to a bachelor with more appetite for risk than for arithmetic; your sister’s letters, misdelivered and read by a man who knows how to make use of what he has read; the charity ledgers that suddenly show generous donations from unlikely benefactors. None of these are loud crimes — merely useful arrangements.”

He laughed softly. “Useful arrangements are the currency of governance.”

“And the currency of extortion,” she said. “You confuse the two only when it benefits you.”

Haversham set the book aside and rose, graceful despite his years. He closed the distance between them to a single pace. “Even if—hypothetically—there were arrangements that compromised me, what would you have me do? Admit fault and watch rivals prowl? Or deny and be swallowed by insinuations? Both look like surrender.”

Clymenia’s smile was small and sharp. “Neither. You do what the prudent do: you remove the appetite for the arrangement. Punish the ease, not the symptom. Dismiss your steward in quietness; send your sister away under the pretense of a distant estate; reveal a modest error in the ledgers and correct it publicly so the rest think honesty is your habit, not a reaction. Make the city believe you are too unpredictable to be played.”

He stared at her as though tasting a new flavor. “You would be my adviser. Dangerous, to advise a man who thinks himself all but infallible.”

“I would not ask the title,” she replied. “Only the attention. And the removal of one petty man from your household.” She nodded toward the servant door, where a shadow shifted as if listening.

The lord’s hand hovered near his collar, an old habit of men who liked to feel the weight of their chains. “And in return?”

“In return,” Clymenia said, “I shall owe you nothing. What I wish is simple: that you admit, to yourself, that influence is not dominion. Stop assuming that your favours make men loyal, and begin to treat loyalty as something to be cultivated rather than purchased. Make one small, honest action — and the rest will follow.”

Haversham’s jaw tightened. “You ask for a confession I have no mind to make.”

“No confession,” she corrected. “A demonstration. Let one man go. Let one ledger stand corrected. Watch as the web slackens. If you are worried about power, keep your voice — but let others feel a hand of justice, however small. The city does not forgive those who are always untroubled.”

Silence passed between them like a held breath, the clock marking the moment with a discreet chime. He studied her profile: the poised chin, the steady gaze, the lack of theatrical fury. She offered him strategy instead of accusation — a merciful blade.

“Clymenia,” he said finally, “you make an excellent case. You also make me nervous.”

“Good,” she answered simply. “You should be.”

He smiled then, an expression that was almost like respect. “Very well. I will consider your—proposal. For the sake of curiosity if not virtue.”

She inclined her head, pleased with the small victory but keeping the look contained. “Curiosity is a useful master. It teaches a man what he did not know he needed to learn.”

As she turned to leave, Lord Haversham reached out and laid a single finger upon the book at his knee, an old symbol of claim. “One thing more,” he said. “If ever you betray me—”

“You won’t,” Clymenia interrupted coolly. “Because I prefer a life where I am owed no favors and give none for the price of silence.”

He made another small noise that could have been a laugh, or a concession. “We shall see.”

She paused at the threshold, then said, “We shall.” The moonlight followed her out, and the study seemed a fraction less certain in its order when the door closed behind her.

It seems like you're referring to a specific feature or concept related to "The Nobleman Retort -Clymenia-". However, without more context, it's a bit challenging to provide a detailed explanation or discussion.

Could you please provide more information or clarify what you mean by "feature" in this context? Are you referring to a character trait, a plot device, a thematic element, or something else from "The Nobleman Retort -Clymenia-"?

If you're interested in discussing a particular aspect of this topic, I'd be happy to try and help!

" The Nobleman Retort " (Japanese: Kizoku no Kotae) is an adult RPG developed by Clymenia that blends dungeon exploration with a "corruption" and "hypnosis" progression system. The game follows Johan, a young noble who is cast out of his family's estate due to political infighting and his aunt's schemes. Plot & Gameplay Overview

The Premise: After being exiled, Johan encounters a demon who grants him the power of hypnosis. He uses this ability to manipulate adventurers and townspeople to regain his status and exact revenge.

Dungeon Crawling: While Johan starts as a weak exile, the core gameplay involves sending hypnotised allies into dungeons to retrieve Dark Crystals, which are used to level up his hypnosis skills.

Progression: As your hypnosis level increases (starting from Level D), you gain greater control over NPCs, allowing you to bypass moral restrictions and influence the game's story path. Key Features The Nobleman Retort -Clymenia-

Tactical Element: Unlike typical RPGs where the protagonist does all the fighting, players often rely on the characters they've "recruited" via hypnosis to do the heavy lifting in combat.

Multiple Characters: The game features several key female characters, such as the adventurer Aria, whom Johan targets early in the story.

Corruption Themes: The narrative leans heavily into the transition from a desperate nobleman to a calculated manipulator.

If you are looking for specific gameplay tips, such as where to find specific Dark Crystals or how to optimize character builds, please let me know!

The NobleMan's Retort: Hypnosis Aristocrat Review - DeviantArt

VIII. SAMPLE DIALOGUE (Opening Retort)

Clymenia: “You lost your house in three sentences, Lord Crane. That’s not a fall. That’s a courtesy bow.”

Valerius: “I came to learn, not to bleed.”

Clymenia: (pouring tea) “Bleeding is learning. Your mistake wasn’t logic. It was believing they wanted truth. They wanted a performance. And you gave them a confession.”

Valerius: “Then teach me to lie.”

Clymenia: (sets cup down) “No. I’ll teach you to tell the truth so beautifully they’ll thank you for the scar.”

(She gestures to the obsidian floor.)

Clymenia: “Begin your first Retort. Try to wound me.”

Valerius: “I don’t want to wound—”

Clymenia: “Then you’ve already lost. Again.”

Conclusion: The Final Word

The Nobleman Retort -Clymenia- is more than a fruit; it is a philosophy. It embodies the idea that the most profound sweetness comes only after surviving an initial shock of bitterness. In a world of bland, uniform, year-round produce, the Clymenia is a stubborn aristocrat: difficult, rare, expensive, and utterly unforgettable.

If you ever see a small, necked fruit with a scent that smells like a lime being devoured by a jasmine flower—do not bite it like an apple. Respect the retort. Bite the peel first, endure the sour, and wait for the noble reply.

Status: Critically Endangered (in cultivation).
Alternate names: Clymenia polyandra, "Noble's Reply," "The Insult Fruit."
Warning: Do not consume if you are allergic to sapindaceae compounds.

Have you encountered the Nobleman Retort? Or is it just a fairy tale for fruit fanatics? Share your thoughts below.

The Nobleman's Retort (also known as Hypnotized Evil Ladies - The Nobleman's Retort) is an adult-oriented RPG developed by Clymenia. Plot Summary

The story follows a young nobleman named Johan who lives in the manor of his uncle. After his parents pass away, his aunt, Octavia, seeks to expel him so that her own daughter, Isabel, can inherit the family's position. On the day he is sent away, Johan encounters a demon who grants him the power of hypnosis. He uses this newfound ability to plot his revenge against Octavia and Isabel. Game Details Developer: Clymenia. Genre: Role-Playing Game (RPG) featuring hypnosis themes. Characters: Johan: The protagonist and dispossessed nobleman.

Octavia: The lady of the house and primary target of Johan's revenge. Isabel: Octavia's daughter.

Platforms: The game is typically available on platforms such as DLsite and Steam.

The Nobleman Retort -Clymenia- is an adult-oriented visual novel and RPG hybrid developed by the Japanese circle Clymenia. The game follows the story of Octavia, a noblewoman who finds herself in a desperate situation after being betrayed, leading to a narrative focused on revenge and psychological themes. Game Overview and Narrative

The game is part of Clymenia's portfolio of titles known for blending traditional RPG mechanics with visual novel storytelling and adult content.

Protagonist: Players control Octavia, a high-ranking noblewoman whose status is stripped away.

The "Retort": The title refers to her eventual comeback or "retort" against those who wronged her, often involving dark or morally ambiguous choices.

Themes: It features heavy psychological elements, including themes of hypnotism and corruption, which are characteristic of many Clymenia titles . Gameplay Mechanics

Like many other games from this developer, such as Detective Girl of the Steam City or Public Defense Corp, the gameplay is split between two modes:

Exploration and Dialogue: Standard visual novel segments where players interact with NPCs, make choices that affect the plot, and progress through Octavia's story.

RPG Battles: Turn-based combat where Octavia must fight through enemies. Success in these battles is often required to unlock further narrative scenes or gear upgrades. Availability and Publisher

Clymenia frequently collaborates with Kagura Games for international distribution. Platform: The game is primarily available for PC (Windows).

Purchasing: It can typically be found on the Kagura Games storefront or on Steam as part of various indie bundles.

Versions: For versions sold on mainstream platforms like Steam, a "restoration patch" is usually available on the publisher's website to access the original adult content. Developer Profile: Clymenia

Clymenia is a prolific developer in the "doujin" (indie) game scene in Japan. Their games are distinguished by:

High-Quality Art: Detailed character sprites and CGs that emphasize the protagonist's fall from grace. The Nobleman Retort — Clymenia Clymenia stood framed

Voice Acting: Key scenes often include professional Japanese voice acting to enhance the emotional weight of the "retort".

Genre Specialization: They are specialists in "Heroine RPGs," where a single female lead undergoes a transformative journey.

The Nobleman Retort -Clymenia- (also known by its Japanese title Kizoku no Tashinami

) is a mature-rated Japanese role-playing game (JRPG) developed by the doujin studio

. It is primarily recognized within the "hypnosis" or "mind control" subgenre of adult gaming for its focus on social manipulation and gorgeous art style. Core Premise and Story

The game centers on a young aristocrat who gains the ability to use hypnosis to control those around him. As a nobleman, you navigate a world of high-society intrigue while secretly building your influence through non-traditional means. The narrative structure revolves around increasing your "hypnosis level," which grants greater control over NPCs and unlocks new story segments and scenes. Key Gameplay Features

The gameplay combines traditional RPG dungeon crawling with a management and manipulation system: Hypnosis System

: This is the primary progression mechanic. A higher hypnosis level allows you to issue commands to characters. For example, you can command adventurers to enter dangerous dungeons on your behalf to retrieve items like dark crystals. Dungeon Mechanics

: While the player can explore dungeons directly, they can also send controlled adventurers. Sending others is safer but has a lower success rate for rare items, though it consistently yields crystal shards used for leveling up allies and creating shortcuts. Time Management

: Commands are often restricted by a daily limit (e.g., characters like Octavio and Isabella can only be commanded once per day). The game also features a cycle where resting for several days provides automatic gear upgrades and consumable items like potions. Massive Content

: The game is noted for having a large volume of scenes, including hidden content that players can discover as they progress through different ranking levels. Developer Profile: Clymenia The developer,

, is well-known in the adult doujin gaming community for producing titles with high-quality illustrations and specific thematic focuses. Their games often feature deep mechanics that go beyond simple visual novels, incorporating RPG elements and complex progression systems. for running this game or where to find official updates from the developer?

The NobleMan's Retort: Hypnosis Aristocrat Review - DeviantArt

The Nobleman's Retort: Unpacking Clymenia's Witty Rebuttal

In the realm of botanical nomenclature, few plant names have garnered as much attention and curiosity as Clymenia. This genus of flowering plants, belonging to the family Rutaceae, has been a subject of interest not only for its unique characteristics but also for the etymological tale behind its name. The story of Clymenia's nomenclature is often attributed to a historical anecdote known as "The Nobleman's Retort," a witty and sharp response that has become a fascinating footnote in the history of botanical taxonomy.

The Etymological Background

Clymenia, a genus of plants that includes several species native to tropical regions, particularly in Asia and the Pacific, has a name that is steeped in history and wit. The term "Clymenia" is derived from the Greek word "κλυμένεια" (klymeneia), which refers to a plant. However, the specific story behind why this genus was named Clymenia involves a historical figure and a retort that has been celebrated for its cleverness.

The Nobleman and the Retort

The anecdote known as "The Nobleman's Retort" dates back to the 18th century, a period when botanical exploration and classification were at the forefront of scientific inquiry. A nobleman, whose identity is often lost to history, was approached by a botanist who sought to name a newly discovered plant after him. The nobleman, either out of modesty or perhaps a desire to leave a lasting legacy in a more subtle manner, declined the offer.

However, in a moment of wit and perhaps a touch of humor, he suggested that if the botanist insisted on naming the plant after a noble, he should consider "Clymenia." When queried as to why this particular name, the nobleman's response was purportedly, "Because Clymenus was a noble in ancient Greece, and 'Clymenia' sounds like a compliment." This clever deflection not only showcased the nobleman's humility but also his acumen for witty repartee.

The Significance of Clymenia

Beyond the intriguing etymology of its name, Clymenia itself holds significance in botanical and horticultural circles. These plants are known for their fragrant flowers and are often found in tropical and subtropical regions. The genus includes several species, each with its unique characteristics and growth habits. Clymenia plants have been of interest not only for their aesthetic value but also for their potential medicinal properties.

Conclusion

The story of Clymenia and "The Nobleman's Retort" serves as a delightful intersection of botany, history, and wit. It highlights the intricate and sometimes humorous ways in which the names of plants are derived. Clymenia, with its roots in ancient Greek and its association with a clever nobleman's response, stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of botanical nomenclature. As we continue to explore and classify the natural world, stories like that of Clymenia remind us of the human side of science, where humor, history, and discovery intertwine.

A defining feature of The Nobleman Retort -Clymenia - (also known as The Nobleman's Retort: Hypnosis Aristocrat) is its core gameplay loop focused on hypnosis and mind control mechanics.

As the player, you manage a noble who can send adventurers into dungeons to retrieve Dark Crystals, which are used to level up your character's hypnosis skills. This progression unlocks a massive number of scenes and narrative developments within the game. Key Gameplay Features

Hypnosis Skill Progression: The primary goal is to increase your hypnosis level to gain access to new scenes and hidden content.

Adventurer Management: You can give commands to specific adventurers (such as Octavio and Isabella) once per day. Even if they fail their mission, they return with Crystal Shards used for leveling up and creating magical portals/shortcuts.

Time-Based Rewards: The game tracks "game sleep" days; every 4 days of sleep, you receive stronger gear, and every 7 days, you receive items like potions.

Visual Style: The game is noted for its high-quality art style, which serves as a backdrop for the mind-control-themed narrative.

The NobleMan's Retort: Hypnosis Aristocrat Review - DeviantArt

The Nobleman Retort -Clymenia- (also known as The Nobleman's Retort: Hypnosis Aristocrat

) is a visual novel and RPG hybrid that focuses on hypnosis and mind-control themes. Key Gameplay Features Hypnosis System:

The central gameplay loop revolves around the protagonist increasing his "hypnosis skill" level to unlock more advanced scenes. Dungeon Crawling & Resource Gathering:

To progress, players must explore dungeons or send adventurers to gather crystal shards dark crystals Crystal Shards: Used to level up adventurers and create magical portals. Dark Crystals: Clymenia: “You lost your house in three sentences,

Essential for leveling up the protagonist's hypnosis abilities. Command System: Players can issue commands to specific characters, such as Octavio and Isabella , though this action is limited to once per game day. Time Management:

The game operates on a cycle where resting for four days grants stronger gear, and resting for seven days provides utility items like potions. Critical Reception

Reviewers highlight the "gorgeous" art style, citing it as a major strength for players interested in the genre. Content Volume:

The game is noted for having a massive number of scenes, including hidden sequences that require specific actions to unlock. Progression:

Early gameplay can feel restrictive (limited to "Level D" abilities), requiring significant investment in dungeon runs to expand the protagonist's influence. best strategies for efficient dungeon crawling?

The NobleMan's Retort: Hypnosis Aristocrat Review - DeviantArt

The Nobleman Retort -Clymenia- " (貴族の意地 ―Clymenia―) is a Japanese indie role-playing game (RPG) developed and published by Clymenia, released in 2020. Set in a fantasy world, it explores themes of fallen nobility, social hierarchy, and the personal cost of restoration.

The following essay analyzes the game's narrative structure, its subversion of class tropes, and the mechanical representation of the protagonist's struggle. The Weight of a Name: Social Stigma and Redemption

At its core, The Nobleman Retort is a "reconstruction" narrative. The story follows Evelyn, a noblewoman whose family has been stripped of its status and wealth due to a scandal. Unlike many fantasy protagonists who seek to save the world, Evelyn’s motivation is intensely personal and grounded in social reality: she seeks to clear her family name and reclaim her lost title.

The game effectively uses the "fallen noble" trope to create a constant sense of friction between Evelyn’s internal identity and her external reality. While she maintains the pride, speech patterns, and etiquette of the upper class, the world treats her as a commoner—or worse, a disgraced outcast. This creates a compelling character study on whether "nobility" is an inherent quality of character or a fragile social construct that vanishes without gold and land. Subverting the Heroic Journey

While the game utilizes standard RPG combat and exploration, its thematic focus subverts the typical heroic journey. Most RPGs follow a linear progression of power; however, Evelyn’s journey is defined by compromise. To fund her quest for restoration, she is often forced into situations that directly conflict with her noble upbringing.

The "Retort" in the title refers not just to a verbal comeback, but to a rebuttal of the fate forced upon her. However, the game poses a cynical question: How much of one's soul can be traded for a title? By placing Evelyn in ethically ambiguous positions, the narrative forces the player to participate in her desperation. The "noble" path is frequently the most difficult, requiring significant grinding and sacrifice, while "lowly" shortcuts offer easier progress at the cost of her dignity. Mechanical Storytelling: Poverty as a Gameplay Mechanic

Clymenia integrates the narrative's themes into the gameplay loop through several key features:

The Debt System: The constant need for funds mirrors the crushing weight of Evelyn's lost status. Every decision is filtered through financial necessity, making the struggle for survival feel tangible.

The Reputation Mechanic: Evelyn’s standing in the eyes of the public fluctuates based on her actions. This reinforces the idea that nobility is a performance that must be maintained in the public eye, even when one is starving.

Difficulty as Theme: The early game is notoriously punishing. This reflects the harsh reality of a woman stripped of protection in a world that respects only power and pedigree. Conclusion

The Nobleman Retort -Clymenia- is more than a standard fantasy RPG; it is a meditation on the fragility of class and the endurance of pride. Through Evelyn, the game illustrates that the hardest battle isn't against monsters, but against a society designed to keep the fallen from rising. It succeeds by making the player feel the heavy burden of the "Nobleman’s Retort"—the stubborn, often painful refusal to accept a lower place in the world.

The Nobleman Retort: Unpacking Clymenia's Timeless Rebuttal

In the realm of wit and verbal sparring, few phrases have endured as long as "The Nobleman Retort," also known as Clymenia. This rhetorical device has been a staple of debate and conversation for centuries, allowing individuals to deftly deflect criticism or unwelcome advice while maintaining an air of civility. But what exactly is Clymenia, and how has it remained a timeless tool in the art of retort?

Origins of Clymenia

The term "Clymenia" originates from the name of a character in William Shakespeare's play "The Winter's Tale." However, the concept itself predates Shakespeare's work. Clymenia, in its modern usage, refers to a specific type of response that turns the tables on the person offering advice or criticism.

The Mechanics of Clymenia

At its core, Clymenia involves responding to criticism or advice with a seemingly polite but actually deflecting remark. This is typically achieved by turning the focus back on the critic, implying that their own behavior or character makes them an inappropriate person to offer such advice. The effect is to neutralize the criticism while also subtly pointing out the hypocrisy or lack of credibility of the person making it.

Examples of Clymenia in Action

Consider the following example: A friend comments on your choice of career, saying, "You're making a big mistake by pursuing a career in the arts; you should get a stable job." You might respond with, "I've noticed you've been quite successful in your own career. What's your secret to making bold decisions?" This response acknowledges their comment but shifts the focus to their own decision-making process, implying that perhaps they are not the best person to offer advice on taking risks.

The Enduring Appeal of Clymenia

The reason Clymenia has remained a popular retort for so long lies in its elegance and effectiveness. It allows individuals to maintain their composure and avoid direct confrontation while still addressing the issue at hand. In a world where social interactions can often be fraught with tension and unintended offense, Clymenia provides a refined way to navigate complex conversations.

Moreover, Clymenia encourages a level of self-awareness and reflection. By turning the criticism back on the critic, it invites them to consider their own motivations and actions. This can lead to more meaningful and introspective dialogue, fostering a deeper understanding between parties.

Conclusion

Clymenia, or The Nobleman Retort, stands as a testament to the power of wit and verbal dexterity in navigating the intricacies of human interaction. By employing this clever rhetorical device, individuals can protect their dignity, encourage introspection in others, and maintain the flow of conversation in a positive and engaging manner. Whether in casual conversation or more formal debate, Clymenia continues to be a valuable tool for anyone looking to respond with grace and intelligence.

II. GENRE & TONE

• Primary Genre: Psychological Drama / Courtly Intrigue
• Secondary: Dark Fantasy / Visual Novel
• Tone: Elegant, cutting, melancholic, occasionally violent in language
• Comparables: Death Note (mind games) × The Favourite (biting wit) × Pyre (ritualized conflict)

Part 4: Why is it so rare? The Cultivation Nightmare

If this fruit is so incredible, why isn't it everywhere? Because The Nobleman Retort -Clymenia- is a botanical diva.

1. The 15-Year Wait: A seed-grown Clymenia takes 15 to 20 years to fruit. Grafted trees take 5 years, but the grafted fruit lacks the "retort" intensity (it only gets the sourness, not the sweet comeback).
2. The Pollination Problem: The tree is self-sterile but also rejects 90% of cross-pollination attempts. It requires a specific, unidentified native pollinator found only in the highlands of New Caledonia.
3. The "Last Bite" Spoilage: Once picked, the fruit has a shelf life of exactly 48 hours. After 48 hours, the volatile esters collapse, turning the fruit into a flavorless, mushy blob. It cannot be shipped; it must be hand-carried.

Part 1: What is Clymenia? A Botanical Anomaly

To understand the "Nobleman Retort," we must first strip away the marketing mystique and look at the biology. The Clymenia genus is one of the least understood and most primitive members of the Rutaceae family (the citrus family).

Unlike the common orange (Citrus sinensis) or lemon (Citrus limon), which are hybrids of older species, Clymenia is believed to be a true citrus species—or close to it. Native specifically to the islands of Palau, the Bismarck Archipelago, and parts of New Guinea, the Clymenia fruit is small, resembling a tangerine, but with a distinct neck or "nipple" at the apex.

However, the fruit known commercially as "The Nobleman Retort -Clymenia-" is not the wild variety. It is a specific, cultivated polyploid (a plant with more than two sets of chromosomes) selected for one purpose: the retort.