Here is my inventory, Everyone here is very helpful and I know you can help me out again.

16 Bronze Coins
/ Guard's Sword
/ Torch
/ Clear Focus Stone
/ Map
6 Red Gemstones
/ Stone of Strengthening
/ Wire Clippers
/ Crate
3 Black Gemstones
/ Food Rations
/ Key of Opening
/ Hammer
6 Apples
/ Tinderbox
/ Portrait
/ Rusty Nail

This is my problem: I am in the world with the castle and I have done absolutely everything there is to do and have tried every option including talking to people until they say nothing new. I have talked to everyone and listened everywhere. I've been all throughout the castle. I can't get the picture because the girls won't let me. Yes, I made a mess in the kitchen several times after climbing the rope. Nothing happens. I don't have many bronze coins and can't figure out how to get anymore. I did go into the tavern and fight as well as worked there but I was stupid and bought a useless map of the area. I also did blood drops a favor and picked up a bronze coin that someone dropped. I need more bronze so I can buy sea nymph.
I have no earthly idea about what to do with these apples I got, I'm tempted to eat them. Also I found the key of opening but what's up with the empty shack? I can't get the shelf to come completely off the wall and all I walked out with was a stupid rusty nail. Ok, sorry for so many complications, I am just completely stuck. Thanks for anyones help. By the way, I do have a rope, it is tied to the castle right now.