I must say it was difficult and sometimes misleading (explained in Gist). Without partial key decoding it would be dead end for me. I suggest changing word "ancient" to "classic" in riddle text, because from the beginning your abstract use of term "ancient" can derail thouhgt process.
Solved it: gist.github.com/bbkr/4ad9a1e00872e...
I must say it was difficult and sometimes misleading (explained in Gist). Without partial key decoding it would be dead end for me. I suggest changing word "ancient" to "classic" in riddle text, because from the beginning your abstract use of term "ancient" can derail thouhgt process.
Thanks for the riddle!
I'm glad you enjoyed it!! I will update the riddle.
Thanks for the gist, this will help me in future riddles/puzzles...