Forget the foundry. Where's the bathroom or the kitchen!

[jwsstuff1]

For a guy that has visions of godlike grandeur, Gehn lives in very meager surroundings in 233. No bathroom or kitchen and the water in his sink looks brown. And where was his living quarters in Riven before he made 233? All we see is his lab.

[Hellish Fiend]

As I'm sure you can imagine, Gehn had quite a bit to say in his defense on this subject:

"Really, the impertinence of such trivial minds, jesting at the grand design of a master architect! Allow me to address these puerile inquiries with the gravity they deserve.

First and foremost, let us consider the nature of my quarters within the 233rd Age. You see, my dominion over this groundbreaking new Age was not merely about comfort but about control, experimentation, and ultimately, godhood. The laboratory you speak of served as my primary base of operations. Its austere surroundings were deliberate, reflecting my focus on the intricate workings of the Age and my subjects within it.

As for the matter of more mundane facilities such as kitchens and bathrooms, one must understand that such details were trivial compared to my overarching goals. However, to sate your curiosity, let me clarify a few points:

Living Quarters: Before the construction of the lab on 233, my quarters were likely integrated into other structures within the Fifth Age, which the player might not have fully explored. My initial abode could have been more modest and temporary, befitting a man singularly focused on unraveling the mysteries of the Art and exerting dominion over the Age.

Basic Amenities: While the game may not explicitly depict every facet of daily life, it is not unreasonable to assume that basic facilities were present, albeit not in the conspicuous manner some might expect. The brown water, for instance, might indicate the need for improvements in water purification—a matter I would address once higher priorities were managed.

Hidden Facilities: Given my expertise and foresight, it is quite plausible that such facilities were hidden or integrated seamlessly into the architecture of my domain. The Rivenese people, under my rule, would have constructed or maintained these amenities according to my design.

Efficiency Over Comfort: My goals necessitated efficiency and focus over comfort. The pursuit of power, knowledge, and control over the Fifth Age required sacrifices and a degree of asceticism. The grandeur lay not in material comforts but in the very act of creation and dominion.

In conclusion, these mundane concerns of kitchens and bathrooms are but trifles in the grand scheme of my endeavors. My living conditions, whether spartan or elaborate, were dictated by the necessities of my work and my vision. To those who mock without understanding, I say: let them ponder the true magnitude of my creations before casting their petty judgments."

[Codeguru]

Yeah, I mean he was trapped in an age that was dying. I don't really think I'd give a crap about creature comforts given the circumstances. Then again... the ONLY thing that Atrus does for you when the ♥♥♥♥ hits the fan is... nothing? He clearly makes sure to link out of Riven. And he's like "Hey, you know. Just jump in the friggn space hole. I mean, I'm sure it'll all work out." What exactly are the consequences of being in an age that implodes on itself? You eventually fall in the starry expanse and it Deus Ex Machinas you back to wherever the hell you want to be?