You are the Wizard Grey Star. You now face the tumultuous climax to your epic struggle to overthrow the evil Wytch-king Shasarak. His cruel empire is torn by war as the Freedom Fighters rebel against his corrupt dominion. Can you reach them in time to free mankind? Can you overcome the Wytch-king's ferocious soldiers and the supernatural hordes that are his to command? Your only hope lies in your Wizard's Staff. Guard it well&emdash;for it contains the might of the mystic Moonstone, the very essence of your Magical Powers.
+You are the Wizard Grey Star. You now face the tumultuous climax of your epic struggle to overthrow the evil Wytch-king Shasarak. His cruel empire is torn by war as the Freedom Fighters rebel against his corrupt dominion. Can you reach them in time to free mankind? Can you overcome the Wytch-king's ferocious soldiers and the supernatural hordes that are his to command? Your only hope lies in your Wizard's Staff. Guard it well&emdash;for it contains the might of the mystic Moonstone, the very essence of your Magical Powers.
The World of Lone Wolf is an exciting adventure series in which you are the hero, you make the decisions, and you fight the combats using the unique systems included in the book.
Ancient days they were when first the Shianti set foot upon the land that men call Magnamund. Long had they journeyed through the void, homeless wanderers in search of a pace to call their own. And so it was that when the Shianti first looked upon the face of the land, their hearts were raised in wonder. They saw a world of nameless mountains, untamed forests and lands both wild and free. Here they chose to cease their wanderings and to devote themselves to the study and appreciation of this new-found land.
+Ancient days they were when first the Shianti set foot upon the land that men call Magnamund. Long had they journeyed through the void, homeless wanderers in search of a pace to call their own. And so it was that when the Shianti first looked upon the face of the land, their hearts were raised in wonder. They saw a world of nameless mountains, untamed forests and lands both wild and free. Here they chose to cease their wanderings and to devote themselves to the study and appreciation of this newfound land.
To the delight of the Shianti, the race of man first emerged at this time and they watched his early struggle towards civilization with eager concern. Like gods, the Shianti seemed to the minds of primitive men. Tall and proud, shining with a radiance that spoke of magic and arcane mystery, the Shianti moved among them and with their powers of wizardry, aided man in his development.
As the centuries passed, man fell to worship of the magical Shianti and the power of these wizards grew even stronger. With hungry hearts they sought to unlock the mysteries of knowledge, sending their minds into other planes of existence and strange worlds beyond the sphere of the material plane. Their foresight was now unmatched and the power of their thought was mighty indeed. It was at this time that they created the Moonstone. Woven of the very fabric of the astral plane of Daziarn, this translucent gem was the greatest achievement of Shianti wisdom. It was the binding force of all Shianti magic, containing the combined might of all their wizardry, the sum of all their knowledge. The Golden Age of the Shianti had come and the Moonstone was the instrument of their dominion throughout all Magnamund. Man stood as little more than a shadow, blinded by the shining white light of Shianti glory. But, in creating the Moonstone, the unwritten laws of nature had been transgressed. For the Moonstone, like the Shianti themselves, was something outside of man's own world; it defied the natural order laid down by the creators of the Earth and disrupted the balance that the gods had designed.
The Goddess Ishir, High Priestess of the Moon and mother of all men, showed herself to the Shianti and spoke to them of the destiny of man: The children of this world must claim their inheritance. Their time has come and they must learn to stand alone. They are lost in their worship of you and the day draws ever nearer when they will covet the power of the Moonstone.
This section of the rules implies that you must re-pick your
It is implied that you must pick a new
The original intent of the author was most likely that the player should add 50 to their final
There are sections of this book that describe how you use a Magical Power and how many
Alternatively, you may may wish to use a method given in Section 175, which contains one such case of mandated use of magic: If you do not have enough
Note that you may never choose to use a Magical Power or your Wizard's Staff if you do not have sufficient
It is possible for your
The original intent of the author was most likely that the player should add 30 to their final
To keep a record of your adventure, use the Action Chart.
Before you set off on your adventure, you must discover how well your Shianti masters have prepared you for your quest by determining your fighting prowess&emdash;
The first number that you pick from the Random Number Table in this way represents your
The second number that you need is one to represent your
The third attribute is your power of
The second number that you need is one to represent your
The third attribute is your power of
The wording of this section of the rules seems to indicate&emdash;if read literally&emdash;that you may choose your set of Lesser Magicks again if you have completed a previous adventure. This is without precedent in other books. In order to preserve consistency with other books, you should not choose your Lesser Magicks again. If you have currently mastered five Lesser Magicks, you may choose one additional Lesser Magick from the list. If you have already mastered six Lesser Magicks, you keep these. If you choose Alchemy as a new Lesser Magick, or you have not mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy but you have selected the Higher Magick of Theurgy, you also receive a Herb Pouch with contents, as detailed in the Equipment section.
The wording of this section of the rules seems to indicate&emdash;if read literally&emdash;that you may choose your set of Lesser Magicks again if you have completed a previous adventure. This is without precedent in other books. In order to preserve consistency with other books, you should not choose your Lesser Magicks again. If you have currently mastered five Lesser Magicks, you may choose one additional Lesser Magick from the list. If you have already mastered six Lesser Magicks, you keep these. If you choose Alchemy as a new Lesser Magick, or you have not mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy but you have selected the Higher Magick of Theurgy, you also receive a Herb Pouch with contents, as detailed in the Equipment section.
If your
There are thirteen Magical Powers, the first seven of which are called the Lesser Magicks. Possession of the Moonstone reveals to you the secret of the Magical Powers known as the Higher Magicks, of which there are six. If this is your first Grey Star adventure, you may choose five Lesser Magicks and four Higher Magicks. If you have successfully completed any of the previous Grey Star adventures, you may choose six Lesser Magicks and five Higher Magicks.
@@ -226,14 +266,14 @@ Initial revisionThis Power allows a wizard to transform his thoughts or desires into magical energy. By concentration of the will it is possible to create magical shields of force to bar doors or move objects. Sorcery drains more
This Power allows a wizard to transform his thoughts or desires into magical energy. By concentration of the will it is possible to create magical shields of force to bar doors or move objects. Sorcery drains more
If you choose this Power, write Sorcery
on your Action Chart.
The Power of Enchantment enables a wizard to charm or beguile other creatures, and create illusions in the minds of others. He will be able to extract information from others, place thoughts and compulsions into another's mind or cause them to believe that imaginary events are actually taking place. Some magical or highly intelligent beings may be immune to the powers of Enchantment
+The Power of Enchantment enables a wizard to charm or beguile other creatures, and create illusions in the minds of others. He will be able to extract information from others, place thoughts and compulsions into another's mind or cause them to believe that imaginary events are actually taking place. Some magical or highly intelligent beings may be immune to the powers of Enchantment
If you choose this Power, write Enchantment
on your Action Chart.
The Power of elemental magic allows a wizard some control over the natural elements of Air, Fire, Earth and Water. By entering a trance and chanting incantations, you may summon aid from the spirits of the Elemental Plane. Elementals have very little understanding of man, and for this reason a wizard can never be sure of the nature of the aid the Elementals may send.
+The Power of elemental magic allows a wizard some control over the natural elements of Air, Fire, Earth and Water. By entering a trance and chanting incantations, you may summon aid from the spirits of the Elemental Plane. Elementals have very little understanding of man, and for this reason a wizard can never be sure of the nature of the aid the Elementals may send.
If you choose this Power, write Elementalism
on your Action Chart.
A wizard who possesses the Power of Alchemy is able, through the mixing of various substances, to create magical potions. Given the correct ingredients, a potion may restore lost energy (i.e.,
A wizard who possesses the Power of Alchemy is able, through the mixing of various substances, to create magical potions. Given the correct ingredients, a potion may restore lost energy (i.e.,
If you choose this Power write Alchemy
on your Action Chart.
The Power of Prophecy allows a wizard to foretell the future through meditation. A meditative state will allow a wizard to make the correct decision when facing conflicting choices or difficult actions; to discover the whereabouts of a person he has once met, or an object he has once seen. It may also allow him to determine the true nature of a stranger or a strange object. Magical beings or objects are sometimes hidden from the Power of Prophecy.
+The Power of Prophecy allows a wizard to foretell the future through meditation. A meditative state will allow a wizard to make the correct decision when facing conflicting choices or difficult actions; to discover the whereabouts of a person he has once met, or an object he has once seen. It may also allow him to determine the true nature of a stranger or a strange object. Magical beings or objects are sometimes hidden from the Power of Prophecy.
If you choose this Power, write Prophecy
on your Action Chart.
This Power bestows upon a wizard the ability to deduce facts about events by touching objects connected to them. Through deep concentration, a wizard may lay his hands upon any inanimate object and visualize scenes that have affected it. Visions brought about through the use of Psychomancy are often cryptic, taking the form of a riddle or puzzle. Some magic items are resistant to the use of Psychomancy and may, sometimes, impart misleading information.
+This Power bestows upon a wizard the ability to deduce facts about events by touching objects connected to them. Through deep concentration, a wizard may lay his hands upon any inanimate object and visualize scenes that have affected it. Visions brought about through the use of Psychomancy are often cryptic, taking the form of a riddle or puzzle. Some magic items are resistant to the use of Psychomancy and may, sometimes, impart misleading information.
If you choose this Power, write Psychomancy
on your Action Chart.
Mastery of this Power permits contact with the spirit realm. A wizard wishing to speak with the dead, or to call up a form from the spirit world, must draw a magic pentacle and enter a trance, when the use of the correct spell-chant will reach out to the Spiritual Plane. Standing within the protection of a magic pentacle, a wizard may consider himself to be relatively safe from harm. If he wishes to speak with a corpse, especially one whose former life was good and righteous, then a wizard can expect help and advice. However, contact with those whose former lives were evil or selfish can be a perilous, and often fatal, experience. Evil spirits are reluctant to return to the realm of the dead and may try to trick a wizard into freeing them into the world of the living. All spirits, good and evil, will require some service of the wizard in return for their aid. Any failure to perform this task, however difficult may result in the wizard losing his life.
+Mastery of this Power permits contact with the spirit realm. A wizard wishing to speak with the dead, or to call up a form from the spirit world, must draw a magic pentacle and enter a trance, when the use of the correct spell-chant will reach out to the Spiritual Plane. Standing within the protection of a magic pentacle, a wizard may consider himself to be relatively safe from harm. If he wishes to speak with a corpse, especially one whose former life was good and righteous, then a wizard can expect help and advice. However, contact with those whose former lives were evil or selfish can be a perilous, and often fatal, experience. Evil spirits are reluctant to return to the realm of the dead and may try to trick a wizard into freeing them into the world of the living. All spirits, good and evil, will require some service of the wizard in return for their aid. Any failure to perform this task, however difficult may result in the wizard losing his life.
If you choose this Power, write Evocation
on your Action Chart.
This Higher Magick is an advanced form of Sorcery, the craft of magical energy. Where Sorcery allows a wizard to affect external things, Thaumaturgy affects the wizard himself. The Power of Thaumaturgy can bestow upon a wizard the power of levitation, a limited form of flying; invulnerability and increased strength; the ability to bend metal or warp wood by disturbing their molecules; and, perhaps the most useful of all, teleportation, that is, the ability to travel great distances in seconds by simply visualizing the destination.
+This Higher Magick is an advanced form of Sorcery, the craft of magical energy. Where Sorcery allows a wizard to affect external things, Thaumaturgy affects the wizard himself. The Power of Thaumaturgy can bestow upon a wizard the power of levitation, a limited form of flying; invulnerability and increased strength; the ability to bend metal or warp wood by disturbing their molecules; and, perhaps the most useful of all, teleportation, that is, the ability to travel great distances in seconds by simply visualizing the destination.
If you choose this Power, write Thaumaturgy
on your Action Chart.
An advanced form of Enchantment, Telergy is the Power of mind control, telepathy and autosuggestion. It enhances the tangibility of the illusions of Enchantment and allows you to control the minds of others. However, like Enchantment, some magical beings will be able to resist this Power.
+An advanced form of Enchantment, Telergy is the Power of mind control, telepathy and autosuggestion. It enhances the tangibility of the illusions of Enchantment and allows you to control the minds of others. However, like Enchantment, some magical beings will be able to resist this Power.
If you choose this Power, write Telergy
on your Action Chart.
Where Elementalism allows a wizard to summon the aid of the elemental spirits, the Higher Magick of Physiurgy grants the wizard mastery over the elements. It allows him to command winds, open cracks in the earth, cause earthquakes, raise storms and create other weather effects.
+Where Elementalism allows a wizard to summon the aid of the elemental spirits, the Higher Magick of Physiurgy grants the wizard mastery over the elements. It allows him to command winds, open cracks in the earth, cause earthquakes, raise storms and create other weather effects.
If you choose this Power, write Physiurgy
on your Action Chart.
Theurgy is an advanced form of Alchemy. Possession of the Moonstone of the Shianti makes the casting of a larger number of spells possible. It unlocks the knowledge of more ingredients for mixing potions and reveals some of the special times, or ways, that they must be mixed. The power of the Moonstone acts as a charm for these potions. No
Theurgy is an advanced form of Alchemy. Possession of the Moonstone of the Shianti makes the casting of a larger number of spells possible. It unlocks the knowledge of more ingredients for mixing potions and reveals some of the special times, or ways, that they must be mixed. The power of the Moonstone acts as a charm for these potions. No
If you choose this Power, write Theurgy
on your Action Chart.
With the aid of the Moonstone, you may use the skill of a Visionary to look upon events that are taking place elsewhere. The Power of a Visionary is generally concerned with visual images of the present.
+With the aid of the Moonstone, you may use the skill of a Visionary to look upon events that are taking place elsewhere. The Power of a Visionary is generally concerned with visual images of the present.
If you choose this Power, write Visionary
on your Action Chart.
Necromancy is a higher form of Evocation. Where Evocation allows contact with the spirit world, Necromancy allows a wizard to command the dead, though this is forbidden by Shianti law. It also allows him to make an incantation that will imbue the Moonstone with a protective aura of light to keep away all creatures of evil, dead or alive.
+Necromancy is a higher form of Evocation. Where Evocation allows contact with the spirit world, Necromancy allows a wizard to command the dead, though this is forbidden by Shianti law. It also allows him to make an incantation that will imbue the Moonstone with a protective aura of light to keep away all creatures of evil, dead or alive.
If you choose this Power, write Necromancy
on your Action Chart.
Your Staff is your most valuable possession. It looks and feels like an ordinary quarterstaff, yet it is stronger than any known metal. This is your main combat weapon, for you are untrained in the use of any other form of armed combat. It contains a potent force that is unleashed at will by the power of your mind, and causes a beam of destructive power to hurtle from its tip. Every time you unleash this power you must deduct 1
Your Staff is your most valuable possession. It looks and feels like an ordinary quarterstaff, yet it is stronger than any known metal. This is your main combat weapon, for you are untrained in the use of any other form of armed combat. It contains a potent force that is unleashed at will by the power of your mind, and causes a beam of destructive power to hurtle from its tip. Every time you unleash this power you must deduct 1
In the event that your enemy survives such an attack or should you fall victim to a surprise attack, you will be forced to engage in close combat and must attempt to strike your enemy with the Staff. If your attack is successful, a bolt of energy will be released from the Staff that is capable of inflicting great physical harm. If you wish to increase the amount of damage that you inflict in this way, you must use more
If you enter combat without your Staff, deduct 6 points from your
If you enter combat without your Staff, deduct 6 points from your
The Moonstone has many attributes, some of which are described in the Higher Magicks section and some of which you will discover during the course of your adventure. The Shianti have also given it the power to teleport you to Shasarak once during the course of your adventure. You will be told of that opportunity when the time is right.
+The Moonstone has many attributes, some of which are described in the Higher Magicks section and some of which you will discover during the course of your adventure. The Shianti have also given it the power to teleport you to Shasarak once during the course of your adventure. You will be told of that opportunity when the time is right.
@@ -510,7 +550,7 @@ Initial revisionAny weapons and Special Items that you possess as a result of completing previous Grey Star adventures should be entered on the Action Chart.
@@ -656,8 +696,8 @@ Initial revisionHail Wizard, son of man. You have succeeded. We, the Shianti, rejoice and praise you. That which you hold in your hand contains the power that will enable you to defeat the evil Wytch-king, Shasarak.
A crowd of excited voices fills your mind as each of the Shianti sends words of congratulations and admiration. The last of these voices is Maiteya, your old friend, the Shianti master who taught you all you know. And so,
he says, affectionately little one
,now you possess the Moonstone, Shasarak's bane. While you hold it, we, the Shianti, are able to speak with you but this communication cannot be maintained much longer. Because you have the Moonstone, we have sufficient power to return you to the world, but there is much you should know before we do so. Listen well, Grey Star, for I know not when we will speak again.
Though it seems to you but a short time since you arrived at the Daziarn, seven years have passed here in the material world. During your search for the Shadow Gate, you visited the city of Karnali. Your arrival there inspired a revolution, led by Sado of the Long Knife and his Army of the Freedom Guild. After your departure, the Freedom Guild withstood a great siege by Shadakine warriors, who eventually withdrew defeated, much to Shasarak's displeasure. Word spread of this victory and the strength of the Army of the Freedom Guild grew. Strategically, Karnali was too isolated to make a great impact against the Shadakine Empire, but, due to the surrounding Gurlu Marshes, it remained self sufficient. Soon, many were travelling to Karnali to escape the tyranny of Shasarak's rule. Pockets of resistance broke out in the townships of Wenat, Zhanis, Sena and the city of Forlu, and the Freedom Guild soon dominated the hills and the plains of the south. They raided Shadakine supply trains and succeeded in depriving the empire of much of its wealth, cutting off all land routes to the Port of Suhn, the wealthiest and most important trade centre of the empire. An army is now formed in Karnali and, in three days, it will march against the Shadakine Empire, hoping to take Port Suhn in the first of many conquests. But, unknown to Sado and the Army of the Freedom Guild, a vast Shadakine force has been mustered in the Sadi desert. Soon, it will march against them. The Army of the Freedom Guild number ten thousand to the Shadakine's thirty thousand. The Freedom Guild cannot hope to succeed against such overwhelming odds. You must save them. Take then to the Forest of Fernmost. It is most important that you go there. There is little time and much to do Grey Star &ellips;
A crowd of excited voices fills your mind as each of the Shianti sends words of congratulations and admiration. The last of these voices is Maiteya, your old friend, the Shianti master who taught you all you know. And so,
he says, affectionately little one
,now you possess the Moonstone, Shasarak's bane. While you hold it, we, the Shianti, are able to speak with you but this communication cannot be maintained much longer. Because you have the Moonstone, we have sufficient power to return you to the world, but there is much you should know before we do so. Listen well, Grey Star, for I know not when we will speak again.
Though it seems to you but a short time since you arrived at the Daziarn, seven years have passed here in the material world. During your search for the Shadow Gate, you visited the city of Karnali. Your arrival there inspired a revolution, led by Sado of the Long Knife and his Army of the Freedom Guild. After your departure, the Freedom Guild withstood a great siege by Shadakine warriors, who eventually withdrew defeated, much to Shasarak's displeasure. Word spread of this victory and the strength of the Army of the Freedom Guild grew. Strategically, Karnali was too isolated to make a great impact against the Shadakine Empire, but, due to the surrounding Gurlu Marshes, it remained self sufficient. Soon, many were travelling to Karnali to escape the tyranny of Shasarak's rule. Pockets of resistance broke out in the townships of Wenat, Zhanis, Sena and the city of Forlu, and the Freedom Guild soon dominated the hills and the plains of the south. They raided Shadakine supply trains and succeeded in depriving the empire of much of its wealth, cutting off all land routes to the Port of Suhn, the wealthiest and most important trade centre of the empire. An army is now formed in Karnali and, in three days, it will march against the Shadakine Empire, hoping to take Port Suhn in the first of many conquests. But, unknown to Sado and the Army of the Freedom Guild, a vast Shadakine force has been mustered in the Sadi desert. Soon, it will march against them. The Army of the Freedom Guild number ten thousand to the Shadakine's thirty thousand. The Freedom Guild cannot hope to succeed against such overwhelming odds. You must save them. Take them to the Forest of Fernmost. It is most important that you go there. There is little time and much to do Grey Star&ellips;
The voice grows faint and you realize that the Shianti will be unable to maintain contact for much longer. And now, Grey Star, the contact breaks and we must return you to the world to begin the last of your great labours. Are there any last words of advice we can offer you?
Your mind races as you think of all that you might need to know.
It looks likely that you will have to do battle with the demon horde. You decide to take advantage of the protection the Theurgic Potion offers and quickly swallow the dark, bitter liquid. Gradually your body begins to glow with a strange, blue light. Remember that the effects of the Potion will begin to fade in only a few hours.
-Delete the Potion of Invulnerability from your Action Chart. You may keep the empty vial and include it as an item on your Action Chart: keep it in your Herb Pouch or in your Backpack.
+Delete the Potion of Invulnerability from your Action Chart. You may keep the empty Vial and include it as an item on your Action Chart: keep it in your Herb Pouch or in your Backpack.
You know there is no point in arguing with her, especially when so much of what she says is true. The two of you stride forward, prepared to meet whatever danger awaits you together.
You have travelled for two miles when Tanith stops, peering into the shimmering heat haze and shielding her eyes against the sun with her hand. They come,
she says, dispassionately.
Following the direction of her gaze, you see something stirring in the distance. You notice a low dust haze hanging in the air, a running cloud drifting against the flat expanse of the plain. There are four runners and they are heading straight towards you. As they come closer, you are able to see that they are ghastly, malformed creatures, each deformed in a different way. These are demons, summoned long ago by the Wytch-king, Shasarak, to plague the tribe of the Masbaté, the warrior people that ruled here before Shasarak unleashed the demonic horde that destroyed them. When the demons had fulfilled their purpose, Shasarak left them to roam these plains at will, instead of returning them to the deep hell from which he summoned them. The leading creature has green, shining skin and a tail. Its neckless head bears the features of a toad. With a feral scream it charges towards you. The others follow.
-With consummate ease, you manage to strip the plant of its pods entirely. Your harvest yields nine pods. They are so small that nine pods only take up the space of three items in your Herb Pouch. Remember to write the Phinomel pods on your Action Chart. If there is not room in your Herb Pouch, you may carry some, or all, of the Phinomel pods as Backpack Items.
+With consummate ease, you manage to strip the plant of its pods entirely. Your harvest yields nine pods. They are so small that nine pods only take up the space of three items in your Herb Pouch. Remember to write the Phinomel Pods on your Action Chart. If there is not room in your Herb Pouch, you may carry some, or all, of the Phinomel Pods as Backpack Items.
With a satisfied nod, you finish packing away your new find and continue on your journey.
You smash the fabric that binds the skeleton's body but you are fighting the creature with magic. Your fellow soldiers do not have the same advantage and the air is filled with their terrified cries. Many are being slain and, as they die, Shasarak's spell takes them, and they rise to fight once more as soldiers of the undead. Those that survive find themselves fighting their friends and comrades. The powers you possess protect only you from attack. You can save the Freedom guild only by destroying Shasarak. The time has come: you must go to him.
-You smash the fabric that binds the skeleton's body but you are fighting the creature with magic. Your fellow soldiers do not have the same advantage and the air is filled with their terrified cries. Many are being slain and, as they die, Shasarak's spell takes them, and they rise to fight once more as soldiers of the undead. Those that survive find themselves fighting their friends and comrades. The powers you possess protect only you from attack. You can save the Freedom Guild only by destroying Shasarak. The time has come: you must go to him.
+If you are unable to teleport by any of these means, then you have failed in your quest and your adventure is over.
+In the Lissan Plain the herbs and flowers that you need to mix a potion of invulnerability grow in abundance. Made from the leaves of the Zakutsk flower and the root of the Demeril bush, the potion is mixed with salt and spring water beneath the rays of the midday sun. It will protect your body from physical harm for only a few hours, but might prove invaluable in your attempt to close the portal of Tilos should you be forced to face an attack by the demons of the Lissan Plain, either on your way to the portal, or afterwards, when you are trying to lure the demon horde against the Shadakine army marching towards the bridge at Lanzi.
-Careful as you might be, you are unable to avoid disturbing a Phinomel branch to your left. Two pods emit a jet of viscid purple fluid. One jet misses but, unfortunately, the second splashes your arm, quickly burning through the fabric of your robe and causing a searing pain as it burns your flesh. You lose 2
Despite a rather painful experience, you nod to yourself approvingly, sure that the Phinomel pods will be useful, and continue on your search for Lake Dolani.
+Careful as you might be, you are unable to avoid disturbing a Phinomel branch to your left. Two pods emit a jet of viscid purple fluid. One jet misses but, unfortunately, the second splashes your arm, quickly burning through the fabric of your robe and causing a searing pain as it burns your flesh. You lose 2
Despite a rather painful experience, you nod to yourself approvingly, sure that the Phinomel Pods will be useful, and continue on your search for Lake Dolani.
By using the Magical Power of Thaumaturgy, you will be able to weave a spell of invulnerability about yourself. The cost of this spell will be 4
If you wish to take the Sheath, record it as a Special Item on your Action Chart.
If you wish to take the Sheath, record it as a Special Item on your Action Chart.
You both drink long and deep: the large bowl is almost empty before your thirst is sated. When you have finished you walk to the far end of the hall. Two flights of stairs lead up to a large platform. At the rear of the platform a vast and elaborate frieze has been carved from the wall. In the centre, a woman stands with arms outstretched in a gesture of welcome. She is wreathed in light and, standing all around her, are rows of men and women of proud bearing. This building must be the work of the Masbaté. The woman is a representation of the Great goddess Ishir, High Priestess of the Moon, mother of all men, and the building is some form of temple or shrine.
Another flight of steps leads from the platform to one of the many galleries that line the temple's walls. Cautiously you both mount these steps, passing through a doorway that opens on to one of the galleries. The fading light from above does not illuminate the high archways that lead off the gallery, and, at the cost of 1
Inspection of the remaining chambers on this floor confirms that this is an ancient Masbaté tomb. Each chamber is a crypt, in which the Masbaté have laid their dead to rest with their weapons of war and personal effects. The tomb of the Masbaté was probably served by guardians before Shasarak summoned the plague of demons that eventually destroyed the Masbaté tribe. Tanith arms herself with a long dagger from one of the chambers. She also takes a sling and a number of stones. You may keep any of the following items that you find in the various chambers:
Remember to mark any items that you keep on your Action Chart.
The light from the shafts has faded completely. Night has fallen. You are both very tired and, after further exploration, you discover an empty chamber and both settle down to sleep.
@@ -980,7 +1025,7 @@ Initial revisionThe demon opens its mouth and bares a tangle of fanged teeth. It lunges at you, and, as you swerve to receive its attack, you realize that your back is undefended against the other three demons. However, you must fight the toad demon first.
You may only evade combat if you have lost less
The guide returns to the mountains. You are alone. You urge the Simar horse into a trot and head north.
-With a low rumble, the stone door opens slowly, the rusted metal of the pulleys screeching amid the rasp of grating stone. The door is only half-way open when it grinds to a halt. The age-old mechanism has failed. However, the gap is sufficiently wide to admit a human form and soon you and Tanith are standing within the ziggurat, peering anxiously into the shadows.
+With a low rumble, the stone door opens slowly, the rusted metal of the pulleys screeching amid the rasp of grating stone. The door is only halfway open when it grinds to a halt. The age-old mechanism has failed. However, the gap is sufficiently wide to admit a human form and soon you and Tanith are standing within the ziggurat, peering anxiously into the shadows.
The horseman's blow shears his pear in half as he gallops past. He wheels, sword drawn, and dashes towards you again. Now you must fight to the death.
+The horseman's blow shears his spear in half as he gallops past. He wheels, sword drawn, and dashes towards you again. Now you must fight to the death.
Remember to mark any items that you take on your Action Chart. The empty Vials, and those containing Sulphur and Saltpetre can be stored in your Herb Pouch. You may also keep a sprig of Zakutsk Flower and a Demeril Root, these must be carried in your Herb Pouch. The Pestle and Mortar and the Tinderbox are Backpack Items, and the Vials may be stored in your Backpack or your Herb Pouch.
As the evening draws in, the temperature begins to cool. You are tired and thirsty. You have been heading in the direction of Lake Dolani but neither you nor Tanith have ever been to the Lissan Plain before and you are not sure of the lake's exact location. You know only that it lies on the southern side of the plain. You are now unsure that you can reach it by nightfall. Looking to the west, you see a large building of square, tiered stone. It is approximately two miles away.
+As the evening draws in, the temperature begins to cool. You are tired and thirsty. You have been heading in the direction of Lake Dolani but neither you nor Tanith has ever been to the Lissan Plain before and you are not sure of the lake's exact location. You know only that it lies on the southern side of the plain. You are now unsure that you can reach it by nightfall. Looking to the west, you see a large building of square, tiered stone. It is approximately two miles away.
Your vision clears and, as you regain your senses, you see that the warriors are men of the Masbaté, the tribe believed to be extinct after persecution by the Wytch-king, Shasarak. With a flurry of sword blows, the Masbaté hew a bloody path towards you. Though they number less than fifty, their demonic foes seem powerless to resist, so swift and fierce is the attack. The demon horde scatters in all directions. Some dematerialize&emdash;magic is inherent in their nature. Those that remain are slain mercilessly.
When at last the battle is done, no living demon remains in the tomb, while, incredibly, the Masbaté have suffered no losses, only a scattering of light wounds. One of their number now stands before you. Like his comrades, the Masbaté warrior stands well over seven feet tall, his body rippling with muscle beneath skin as black as ebony. His hair is long and black and his eyes still burn with the fire of battle. He is clad only in a corselet of worn, padded leather. A scabbard slung low from a broad belt carries a massive broadsword of dull, grey metal. His only protective wear, a pair of metal wristbands, is engraved with the intricately worked design of a rearing horse. He gives you a speculative stare. It is not an altogether friendly gaze.
What do we have here?
he booms, in a strong, yet melodious bass tone. A boy and a girl perhaps? Or demons in human guise, defilers of the sacred tomb of our forefathers. Speak now and swiftly. My blade is thirsty yet to drink the blood of more hellspawn.
Before you are able to speak, Tanith has risen to her feet, brandishing her dagger and scowling with the characteristic ferocity that you have come to know so well. You know not what you say,
she snaps, menace in her voice. But for that, this blade of mine would have your life for such insult to one who comes to save your brawny, worthless hide. Soften your tone, tall one, for you speak to a mighty wizard, a master of great powers, the chosen one of the great ancient Shianti. He has come to challenge the Wytchking himself, who is surely the enemy of us all.
Before you are able to speak, Tanith has risen to her feet, brandishing her dagger and scowling with the characteristic ferocity that you have come to know so well. You know not what you say,
she snaps, menace in her voice. But for that, this blade of mine would have your life for such insult to one who comes to save your brawny, worthless hide. Soften your tone, tall one, for you speak to a mighty wizard, a master of great powers, the chosen one of the great ancient Shianti. He has come to challenge the Wytch-king himself, who is surely the enemy of us all.
Despite her slight frame and her puny blade, Tanith confronts the warrior with an icy countenance that would freeze blood. Though he towers over her like a giant, the warrior steps back, mouth agape in astonishment at her fearless outburst. He is stunned into silence. The barely suppressed mirth of the other Masbaté is plain to see.
Ho there Dioka!
shouts a squat Masbaté, with a bellowing laugh that makes his pot-belly quiver and shake. It's a spitting she-cat that's stolen your tongue I see.
And the cat has claws, bladder belly!
she snaps. The plump warrior's face drops, while the one named Dioka bursts into laughter. Well met, my lady,
he guffaws.
The room fills with the sound of savage laughter, but it is not Shasarak who laughs. A familiar, slithering, deathly voice emanates from the wall of fire, and within the fire you see two slanted eyes: pools of absolute darkness. It is the Demon Lord, Agarash!
+The room fills with the sound of savage laughter, but it is not Shasarak who laughs. A familiar, slithering, deathly voice emanates from the wall of fire, and within the fire you see two slanted eyes: pools of absolute darkness. It is the Demonlord Agarash!
See, Shasarak. He has come, as I told you he would. He has come to slay you. Won't you accept my bargain?
NEVER!
Shasarak hisses, his voice like the rush of broken stone scattering on the floor. He does not have the power to master me&ellips; as you have not, Demon.
Shasarak glares at you malevolently and raises a damaged hand. He is about to strike.
-Though you handle the branches of the plant delicately, you cannot avoid disturbing it and many of the pods squirt jets of purple fluid. Fortunately, many miss you. Two of the jets, however, splash your arm. The acid eats quickly through the fabric of your robe and burns into your flesh. You lose 3
Though you handle the branches of the plant delicately, you cannot avoid disturbing it and many of the pods squirt jets of purple fluid. Fortunately, many miss you. Two of the jets, however, splash your arm. The acid eats quickly through the fabric of your robe and burns into your flesh. You lose 3
Cursing your own clumsiness, you pack away your new find, certain that the pods will prove useful, and resume your search for Lake Dolani.
Although the term Agarashi
is not used anywhere else in the Grey Star books, it is used in other books as the collective term for the monstrous servants of Agarash the Damned.
The miles roll by and eventually, the Simar steed adopts a more relaxed pace. You estimate that you are halfway to the pass. Looking over your shoulder to the west, you see only the broad expanse of the plain and the distant hills of Tilos. Of the demon plague you can see nothing.
-High in the afternoon sky you see two black specks wheeling above you. As you walk, one of them begins to spiral downwards. It is a long, snake-like creature with broad, feathery wings. Its talons are like small, clutching needles and it has a small set of forelimbs. The other creature follows and, to your surprise, you see that it is exactly the same as the first, only smaller. That these are plague demons is certain, but it is the first time you have ever seen two of the same kind. The Flying Snakes make no move towards you; they merely drift on the air currents. Evidently these are not affected by the Agarashi's inspired state of crazed frenzy.
+High in the afternoon sky you see two black specks wheeling above you. As you walk, one of them begins to spiral downwards. It is a long, snake-like creature with broad, feathery wings. Its talons are like small, clutching needles and it has a small set of forelimbs. The other creature follows and, to your surprise, you see that it is exactly the same as the first, only smaller. That these are plague demons is certain, but it is the first time you have ever seen two of the same kind. The Flying Snakes make no move towards you; they merely drift on the air currents. Evidently these are not affected by the Agarashi's inspired state of crazed frenzy.
The potion is mixed under the sun's rays and the light you have summoned from the Moonstone. You must fill one of your empty vials with the fluid that is produced. (Delete one of your empty vials from your Action Chart.) You have now created a Potion of Invulnerability. Mark this as a Special Item, which may be stored in your Backpack or your Herb Pouch.
+The potion is mixed under the sun's rays and the light you have summoned from the Moonstone. You must fill one of your empty Vials with the fluid that is produced. (Delete one of your empty Vials from your Action Chart.) You have now created a Potion of Invulnerability. Mark this as an item on your Action Chart. It may be stored in your Backpack or in your Herb Pouch.
When the spell is cast and the protection complete, you turn and face Samu. I am ready,
you say. Summon your men, we must make ready to leave.
I have a gift for you, Grey Star,
he replies.
When the spell is cast and the protection complete, you turn and face Samu. I am ready,
you say. Summon your men, we must make ready to leave.
I have a gift for you, Grey Star,
he replies.
Using your Power, you probe into the near future. You sense that there is danger nearby: the Masbaté is being used as bait for a trap, and the danger lies in venturing into the basin. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1
You set a brisk pace for more than an hour but then the burning sun slows you down. Tanith, too, looks very weary. Your throat is parched. Neither you nor Tanith have seen a waterhole or anything that could yield nourishment or moisture and there has been no sign of any living creature. You are further disturbed by the sight of a lone figure heading towards you from the south. It is too distant for you to be able to distinguish any details, but it is moving at great speed. You peer into the shimmering heat and try to guess what it is that approaches.
+You set a brisk pace for more than an hour but then the burning sun slows you down. Tanith, too, looks very weary. Your throat is parched. Neither you nor Tanith has seen a waterhole or anything that could yield nourishment or moisture and there has been no sign of any living creature. You are further disturbed by the sight of a lone figure heading towards you from the south. It is too distant for you to be able to distinguish any details, but it is moving at great speed. You peer into the shimmering heat and try to guess what it is that approaches.
Fearing conflict so early in your journey, you drink the bitter potion of Invulnerability. Soon your body begins to glow with a strange blue light: the protection is complete. Remember that the effects of the potion will fade after a few hours. Remove the Potion of Invulnerability from your Action Chart, although you may keep the empty vial, which may be stored in your Herb Pouch or in your Backpack.
+Fearing conflict so early in your journey, you drink the bitter potion of Invulnerability. Soon your body begins to glow with a strange blue light: the protection is complete. Remember that the effects of the potion will fade after a few hours. Remove the Potion of Invulnerability from your Action Chart, although you may keep the empty Vial, which may be stored in your Herb Pouch or in your Backpack.
Your body is numb with exhaustion. You stumble once again &ellips; and fall. With wild gleeful cries, the pack reaches you before you are able to rise. Your last moments are spent regarding the multitude of crazed, hideous faces that crave only your death.
+Your body is numb with exhaustion. You stumble once again&ellips; and fall. With wild gleeful cries, the pack reaches you before you are able to rise. Your last moments are spent regarding the multitude of crazed, hideous faces that crave only your death.
Your life and your quest end here.
@@ -1737,7 +1788,7 @@ Initial revisionWith a fierce cry you charge, eyes flashing, Staff blazing. The demon pack comes to a startled halt, amazed at the audacity of your move. You close the gap between yourself and the pack in moments &ellips; and then the charge hits home.
+With a fierce cry you charge, eyes flashing, Staff blazing. The demon pack comes to a startled halt, amazed at the audacity of your move. You close the gap between yourself and the pack in moments&ellips; and then the charge hits home.
If you do not have sufficient
You are surrounded by hundreds of creatures. They close in with evil expressions on their ruined faces and a giant, wingless bat slashes out at you with its claws. However, you are able to hold your ground unflinchingly, for you feel nothing. Soon a great crowd of demons is slashing and gouging at you but still you remain unharmed and slowly you beat a path toward the portal. As you progress, the light of invulnerability that once enfolded you begins to fade and you begin to feel some pain at fresh blows. You field a brilliant defence, however, taking full advantage of being mounted. More and more demons back away in fear of this indestructible warrior who wields a Staff of burning death.
-You use 2
You use 2
At the cost of 1
At the cost of 1
If you do not have sufficient
You hold the Moonstone above your head as it fills slowly with power and light. A chorus of inhuman moans ripples across the valley and your horse snorts and paws the ground nervously. The rays from the Moonstone play upon the burning archway, and it suddenly bursts into flames. You have used 1
You hold the Moonstone above your head as it fills slowly with power and light. A chorus of inhuman moans ripples across the valley and your horse snorts and paws the ground nervously. The rays from the Moonstone play upon the burning archway, and it suddenly bursts into flames. You have used 1
With a mighty effort you drag the Staff from his hand before the life-force is drained from you. Shasarak drags himself to his feet and begins to run towards the wall of fire.
Come, come to me,
Agarash whispers. I will be free.
Shasarak stops. No, you will not have me,
he rasps savagely. I'll take him yet
He reaches up and pulls a long, black Staff from thin air and brandishes it at you. Come &ellips; we will fight!
He lashes at you with his Staff. You must duel with your arch enemy.
Shasarak stops. No, you will not have me,
he rasps savagely. I'll take him yet
He reaches up and pulls a long, black Staff from thin air and brandishes it at you. Come&ellips; we will fight!
He lashes at you with his Staff. You must duel with your arch-enemy.
Springing to your feet, you hurl a cascading rain of magical fire on to the head of the demonic horde below. Many fall dead and the evil mass is thrown into an uproar of startled shrieks and wails. This magical attack has cost you 2
If you do not have sufficient
Sitting astride the beautiful white stallion, you trot to the edge of the valley overlooking the flaming archway of the portal and draw out the Moonstone. You focus all the power of your will on to the stone and the closing of the portal. A chorus of inhuman moans ripples across the valley. You hold the Moonstone above your head as slowly it fills with power and light. The demons draw nearer and your horse paws the ground and stamps nervously.
-Suddenly the flaming archway ignites. Its fire swirls and writhes with great intensity, spitting gouts of liquid orange flame in all directions. You have used 1
Suddenly the flaming archway ignites. Its fire swirls and writhes with great intensity, spitting gouts of liquid orange flame in all directions. You have used 1
Remember to deduct 1
You hurl a ball of white, glowing power at Shasarak. He flinches and falters. The voice of Agarash cackles. Beware the bauble the Shianti holds,
it cries between gulps of perverse laughter. It bites! Fight on little wizards, fight on. Such sport you provide. Who could ask for more?
You hurl a ball of white, glowing power at Shasarak. He flinches and falters. The voice of Agarash cackles. Beware the bauble the Shianti holds,
it cries between gulps of perverse laughter. It bites! Fight on little wizards, fight on. Such sport you provide. Who could ask for more?
You peer into the wild fire at the slanted, inhuman eyes. They are closed; their penumbral grey lids a vague, tinted outline. Slowly, lazily, as if awakening from a deep sleep, they open revealing two great pools of impenetrable darkness; vast, eddying whorls of eternal shadow. The eyes beckon with a hypnotic stare, a cloaked welcome to hell's darkest and most desolate chamber.
Who dares?
demands a slithering, deathly voice. Who dares to knock upon the door to the Pit of Eternal Pain?
You stagger back as a blast of colossal psychic power, a will of great violence and malice makes your head reel and your thoughts tumble. A burning beam of thought is thrust painfully into your mind, searching, probing, searing.
-Who? &ellips; Who? &ellips;
hisses the disembodied voice. The desolate eyes are tinged with red. Savage laughter rings in your ears. Can this be?
the voice crows, scornfully. Oh! but this is the sweetest, the richest, of ironies. It is the Shianti slave, is it not? Upon the errand of fools, treading the path of the foolish? And that worthless bauble of theirs, you have found it? Yes, I see that you have
Who?&ellips; Who?&ellips;
hisses the disembodied voice. The desolate eyes are tinged with red. Savage laughter rings in your ears. Can this be?
the voice crows, scornfully. Oh! but this is the sweetest, the richest, of ironies. It is the Shianti slave, is it not? Upon the errand of fools, treading the path of the foolish? And that worthless bauble of theirs, you have found it? Yes, I see that you have
As the voice mocks, its power over you lessens. You know that you must resist now before you are enslaved forever.
Owing to the speed at which you are galloping and the creature is diving, you will have enough time for only one round of combat. If you have recently drunk a Potion of Invulnerability or have the protection of invulnerability through the previous casting of the Higher Magick of Thaumaturgy, ignore all
If you kill the creature in one round of combat, turn to l78.
+Using 2
You cannot resist, Shianti slave,
the voice spits. You know not who you defy. Know you that I am Agarash the Damned, Demon lord of Darkness. You cannot stand against me. Come, come to me. Take my place here in the Pit of Eternal Pain and I shall be freed.
You feel the force of Agarash's will once again. It is a strength mightier than any you have ever known. You fight with a Demon lord, a servant of Naar, King of the Darkness, a force of ultimate evil. Legend tells that Agarash was once a ruler in the world of Magnamund, till he was defeated by a magical race called the Elder Magi and banished to another plane, doomed to remain there for all eternity. Agarash seeks to draw you towards the portal of fire that is the doorway to his prison.
+You cannot resist, Shianti slave,
the voice spits. You know not who you defy. Know you that I am Agarash the Damned, Demonlord of Darkness. You cannot stand against me. Come, come to me. Take my place here in the Pit of Eternal Pain and I shall be freed.
You feel the force of Agarash's will once again. It is a strength mightier than any you have ever known. You fight with a Demonlord, a servant of Naar, King of the Darkness, a force of ultimate evil. Legend tells that Agarash was once a ruler in the world of Magnamund, till he was defeated by a magical race called the Elder Magi and banished to another plane, doomed to remain there for all eternity. Agarash seeks to draw you towards the portal of fire that is the doorway to his prison.
You raise your Staff and fire at the bridge. The cost of this attack is 9
You raise your Staff and fire at the bridge. The cost of this attack is 9
You are weak and tired and lack the mental strength to resist the incalculable might of a Demon lord. Effortlessly Agarash takes hold of your mind, possessing you utterly. He summons you towards the portal and, like a puppet, you obey. While Agarash looks on, laughing maniacally, you pass through the gate of doom, the doorway to damnation, to a realm of nameless and eternal horror.
+You are weak and tired and lack the mental strength to resist the incalculable might of a Demonlord. Effortlessly Agarash takes hold of your mind, possessing you utterly. He summons you towards the portal and, like a puppet, you obey. While Agarash looks on, laughing maniacally, you pass through the gate of doom, the doorway to damnation, to a realm of nameless and eternal horror.
Your quest has failed; your adventure is over.
@@ -2707,7 +2774,7 @@ Initial revisionWith a whirl of colour, you find yourself in a long, grey hall. You guess that you are close to Shasarak for at the far end of the hall you see a door engraved with a large Shianti rune representing Shasarak's name. Guarding that door is a grotesque creature, a servant of Shasarak. It is a demon, summoned from some ghastly netherworld that only the dark sorceries of Shasarak could reach. The demon has a high, humped back and a square, flat face that bears two blank, emotionless eyes; colourless and entirely lacking in any warmth or feeling; like pebbles by an unknown sea.
Hail, enemy of my master,
it breathes, I have waited for you. My master told me you would come.
You step closer. With some concern you see that the demon has affected the shape of a man, with blonde, gilded hair. You tell yourself that this is no man, but a demon in human guise. The demon stands tall; it mocks. Why have you delayed? What are your reasons? I have waited so long &ellips; so long to meet your challenge. I am powerful, I am mighty! Know you, that I am the Ipagé, greatest of all demons under my master's command. My power is that of hate, for indeed I hate you, free and unstained as you are, unheeding of the powers that I and my master hold most dear.
You step closer. With some concern you see that the demon has affected the shape of a man, with blonde, gilded hair. You tell yourself that this is no man, but a demon in human guise. The demon stands tall; it mocks. Why have you delayed? What are your reasons? I have waited so long&ellips; so long to meet your challenge. I am powerful, I am mighty! Know you, that I am the Ipagé, greatest of all demons under my master's command. My power is that of hate, for indeed I hate you, free and unstained as you are, unheeding of the powers that I and my master hold most dear.
The creature's tirade of scorn is unrelenting and, to you, quite meaningless. It does not hate you, but what you represent; the wild, free, unrestrained wisdom of the Shianti. Shasarak has taught it that this wisdom is meaningless. You know that this is a wisdom, not born of knowledge, but of the freedom of the spirit, of the soul to follow its own way, sure that a mind without hate or resentment can do no harm. The Ipagé hisses like a serpent as you approach. You notice that its body is transparent and shimmers with an eerie light. The door to Shasarak's chamber lies directly behind this evil guardian. So far it has made no attack.
If you do not have sufficient
You rain a torrent of blows on to the heads of your attackers at the cost of 2
You rain a torrent of blows on to the heads of your attackers at the cost of 2
You stand, Staff held aloft, ready for combat. Who calls?
you call into the darkness. There is no answer but soon you are able to discern a tall figure, standing upright in a large, wooden rowing boat. He draws closer and, to your amazement, you find yourself looking upon a giant of a man, perhaps seven or more feet tall with long, flowing hair and skin as black as ebony. You realize that this man is a Masbaté warrior, member of the tribe believed by all to be extinct.
I witnessed your struggle with the demons from the shore
, he says. Come, more are sure to return soon, and in greater numbers. You must come with me. You are not safe on this side of the river.
I witnessed your struggle with the demons from the shore,
he says. Come, more are sure to return soon, and in greater numbers. You must come with me. You are not safe on this side of the river.
You and Tanith clamber aboard the boat and, with strong strokes, the warrior rows you to the other side of the river. There, a great host of Masbaté warriors waits. You can hardly believe your good fortune at this timely rescue or that members of the great Masbaté people still exist. You have only ever known one Masbaté: Samu, a noble and fearless warrior, who accompanied you on your search for the Moonstone. Once he was king of the Masbaté nomads but he thought himself the only survivor of his people. Everyone believed that the Wytch-king, Shasarak, hounded them into extinction, sealing their doom with the unleashing of the demon plague.
I am Dioka,
says the man who has rowed you ashore. I am leader of the warrior band that patrols the banks of the river in the defence of the Masbaté. Who are you?
You regard the Masbaté host with a joyful expression. Greetings, men of the Masbaté,
you call, ensuring that all can hear. I am the Wizard, Grey Star, bound upon a quest in the service of the Shianti and sworn to the destruction of the Wytch-king, Shasarak.
With a gasp you cease your attack: you are nearly unconscious with the strain. Staggering slightly, you look up to see the doors still standing. Your attempt has failed. A few minutes pass before you feel steady on your feet.
-You run through the shadowy darkness and emerge at the forest's edge, where Shadakine and Freedom Guild swordsmen are locked in bloody combat. The Shadakine have the advantage of greater numbers and are forcing the Guildsmen into the forest in a stumbling, disorderly line. They cannot hold for long. You suddenly realize that the strange, pupiless eyes of the Shadakine allow them to see in the dark. No wonder they have attacked in the middle of the night. Their advantage is considerable. A tall officer stands behind the Shadakine warriors, urging them on. Your sudden appearance at the edge of the forest has startled him but he quickly recovers. He bares his teeth and snarls before attacking.
+You run through the shadowy darkness and emerge at the forest's edge, where Shadakine and Freedom Guild swordsmen are locked in bloody combat. The Shadakine have the advantage of greater numbers and are forcing the Guildsmen into the forest in a stumbling, disorderly line. They cannot hold for long. You suddenly realize that the strange, pupilless eyes of the Shadakine allow them to see in the dark. No wonder they have attacked in the middle of the night. Their advantage is considerable. A tall officer stands behind the Shadakine warriors, urging them on. Your sudden appearance at the edge of the forest has startled him but he quickly recovers. He bares his teeth and snarls before attacking.
The Shadakine are wheeling large engines of war to the front of their lines: they are powerful catapults. Pin-points of flame appear. Sado has guessed their intentions and orders his bowmen to fire. The archers of the Freedom Guild send volley after volley singing through the air towards the Shadakine and many of the distant spots of light go out. Suddenly many balls of flame arc through the air above the heads of the men of the Freedom Guild to fall into the trees behind.
+The Shadakine are wheeling large engines of war to the front of their lines: they are powerful catapults. Pinpoints of flame appear. Sado has guessed their intentions and orders his bowmen to fire. The archers of the Freedom Guild send volley after volley singing through the air towards the Shadakine and many of the distant spots of light go out. Suddenly many balls of flame arc through the air above the heads of the men of the Freedom Guild to fall into the trees behind.
Hah!
Sado shouts. The fools are way off target.
I think not,
replies Samu.
You understand his meaning as you watch the dry brush of the forest begin to burn. They mean to flush us out!
you cry with alarm.
With quaking heart, you ascend the hill. You stand at the top in a circle of stone forms with the indistinct features of men. Their voices murmur in a haunting, faraway whisper.
-He comes &ellips; the Grey One comes &ellips;
Does he bear the key &ellips; the Masterstone &ellips; our salvation?
He comes&ellips; the Grey One comes&ellips;
Does he bear the key&ellips; the Masterstone&ellips; our salvation?
Who are you?
you shout into the darkness. The whispering subsides and one voice speaks to you.
We are the Kazim; the Stone peoples. Old as the earth. We have waited.
For what?
But the sentence is never finished, for the king is none other than Samu himself. Grey Star!
he cries, rising to his feet. You live!
Before you can speak a word, King Samu leaps from the stone dais and bounds towards you, sweeping you up in a bone-crunching embrace. Seven years, Grey Star,
he booms. Seven years since last we stood together. We thought that you perished long ago, deep in the caverns of Desolation Valley. What became of your search for the Shadow Gate of the Daziarn&emdash;did you succeed after all? Did you find the Moonstone of the Shianti? What has happened since you stepped upon the wasted lands beyond the Lissan Mountains?
He hugs you once again, squeezing the air from your lungs. When you have regained sufficient breath to speak, you explain what has happened to you since you were separated, and of how the passage of time runs differently on the Daziarn plain. I have but recently returned,
you say. And behold!
You draw out the Moonstone. I succeeded. Look you upon Shasarak's bane&emdash;the Moonstone of the Shianti.
A great noise fills the hall as the Masbaté warriors clash their weapons and call out their battle cries. The Moonstone blazes with a vivid white light that illuminates the whole hall and the faces of the fierce Masbaté. Samu draws his own sword with a great cry. The final battle begins,
he bellows. Revenge will be ours. Death to the Shadakine! Death to the Shadakine Wytches &ellips; and death to the Wytchking, Shasarak, foe of the Masbaté and the Shianti, enemy of all life itself!
A great noise fills the hall as the Masbaté warriors clash their weapons and call out their battle cries. The Moonstone blazes with a vivid white light that illuminates the whole hall and the faces of the fierce Masbaté. Samu draws his own sword with a great cry. The final battle begins,
he bellows. Revenge will be ours. Death to the Shadakine! Death to the Shadakine Wytches&ellips; and death to the Wytch-king, Shasarak, foe of the Masbaté and the Shianti, enemy of all life itself!
The great chamber echoes with the ferocious cries of the Masbaté warriors. When the clamour has died down, you and Tanith are led to chambers within the mountainside, there to eat and rest. The following morning you will meet King Samu to discuss ways in which the Masbaté can aid you in your struggle against Shasarak. You drift off to sleep that night with your spirits lifted. Tomorrow you must ensure the safety of the Army of the Freedom Guild before the Shadakine force, due to move in two days, is able to march against it. You know now that you will not have to face that peril alone.
Tense with anticipation, you wait for the lone figure to arrive. It is humanoid in shape and you notice that it moves with a strange shambling gait. Suddenly it comes to an abrupt halt &ellips; and vanishes! A thrill of fear runs down your spine: There is an unfamiliar magic at work. Tanith gives you a questioning look but says nothing. With a shrug you continue on your way, the mystery unresolved.
+Tense with anticipation, you wait for the lone figure to arrive. It is humanoid in shape and you notice that it moves with a strange shambling gait. Suddenly it comes to an abrupt halt&ellips; and vanishes! A thrill of fear runs down your spine: There is an unfamiliar magic at work. Tanith gives you a questioning look but says nothing. With a shrug you continue on your way, the mystery unresolved.
Hurriedly you pull off the helmet and stand flinching beneath Samu's poised sword. But he is an expert warrior and he checks its downward sweep in an instant. His eyes bulge in amazement. Grey Star!
he gasps. I almost killed you!
No time &ellips; no time,
you reply, quickly, shaking Samu from his stupor. Call your men; we must retreat. See?
you say, gesturing across the river. I have brought the demon plague. We must flee while they and the Shadakine fight.
No time&ellips; no time,
you reply, quickly, shaking Samu from his stupor. Call your men; we must retreat. See?
you say, gesturing across the river. I have brought the demon plague. We must flee while they and the Shadakine fight.
It is as you say. Across the river the demons wage a ferocious battle against the Shadakine. Instantly Samu springs into action, calling to his men and ordering a trumpeter to sound a retreat. The Masbaté retire. The Shadakine are too involved in their fight to pursue, at least for the moment, but you know that it is essential to destroy the bridge to prevent any pursuit should the Shadakine, who must number in their thousands, quickly defeat the demon plague.
With a fearsome battle-cry you hurtle down the stairs and the pack scatters in all directions before you are able to inflict a single blow. The light from the Moonstone begins to fade as the power of the incantation wears off but it hardly matters now that you have cowed the hellish beasts into submission. Suddenly the horde begin to gloat unpleasantly and you halt. At the far end of the hall looms a tall shadow.
+With a fearsome battle-cry you hurtle down the stairs and the pack scatters in all directions before you are able to inflict a single blow. The light from the Moonstone begins to fade as the power of the incantation wears off but it hardly matters now that you have cowed the hellish beasts into submission. Suddenly the horde begins to gloat unpleasantly and you halt. At the far end of the hall looms a tall shadow.
You prepare to do battle with the demon host and decide to take advantage of the protection your Theurgic Potion offers. You swallow the dark, bitter liquid and slowly your body begins to glow with a strange blue light. Remember that the effects of the Potion will fade in a few hours. Delete the Potion of Invulnerability from your Action Chart. You may keep the empty vial in your Herb Pouch or your Backpack. Mark your Action Chart accordingly.
+You prepare to do battle with the demon host and decide to take advantage of the protection your Theurgic Potion offers. You swallow the dark, bitter liquid and slowly your body begins to glow with a strange blue light. Remember that the effects of the Potion will fade in a few hours. Delete the Potion of Invulnerability from your Action Chart. You may keep the empty Vial in your Herb Pouch or your Backpack. Mark your Action Chart accordingly.
The following morning you talk with Samu in his private chamber. You enquire after the fates of the old Kundi man, Urik the Wise, and Hugi the Thief, who also accompanied you on your quest for the Shadow Gate. You learn that Urik returned south to rejoin his people in the forests of the Azanam. Hugi, much to your surprise, returned to fight alongside Sado of the Long Knife with the Army of the Freedom Guild. Samu journeyed north from Desolation Valley to revisit his old country, the Lissan Plain. By chance he stumbled upon the surviving members of his people, who lived within the small belt of land around Lake Dolani and Lake Iss. It seems that the demons of the Lissan Plain are reluctant to cross water and so the lands beyond the rivers of the plain remained unstained by their presence. Only one pass leads out of the plain to the country that surrounds it beyond the mountains and the Masbaté held this pass against the demons. Under Samu's new-found kingship, the last survivors of the Masbaté were reunited and formed a new, though smaller, realm around the southern lakes of Lissan. They created for themselves a home within the mountains, using it as a place to hide from the malevolent eye of Shasarak. They have fought unceasingly with the demons of the Lissan Plain, which Shasarak left to roam at will after the last of the Masbaté were thought to be slain, for the Masbaté still hope to regain the whole of the plain.
+The following morning you talk with Samu in his private chamber. You enquire after the fates of the old Kundi man, Urik the Wise, and Hugi the Thief, who also accompanied you on your quest for the Shadow Gate. You learn that Urik returned south to rejoin his people in the forests of the Azanam. Hugi, much to your surprise, returned to fight alongside Sado of the Long Knife with the Army of the Freedom Guild. Samu journeyed north from Desolation Valley to revisit his old country, the Lissan Plain. By chance he stumbled upon the surviving members of his people, who lived within the small belt of land around Lake Dolani and Lake Iss. It seems that the demons of the Lissan Plain are reluctant to cross water and so the lands beyond the rivers of the plain remained unstained by their presence. Only one pass leads out of the plain to the country that surrounds it beyond the mountains and the Masbaté held this pass against the demons. Under Samu's newfound kingship, the last survivors of the Masbaté were reunited and formed a new, though smaller, realm around the southern lakes of Lissan. They created for themselves a home within the mountains, using it as a place to hide from the malevolent eye of Shasarak. They have fought unceasingly with the demons of the Lissan Plain, which Shasarak left to roam at will after the last of the Masbaté were thought to be slain, for the Masbaté still hope to regain the whole of the plain.
Their numbers are much reduced, compared to the great host that defeated us of old, though many hundreds still remain, especially the more powerful and cunning of their kind,
explains Samu. And there is a power that eludes us yet, the power that allows them to remain in the world. There is a magical gate within the hills near Lake Tilos, the gate that allowed them into the world. It was Shasarak who opened this portal for them and they are able to travel through it to their demon plane as they wish. Whenever they are attacked by a Masbaté force likely to defeat them, they can transport themselves to this portal instantly. While such an escape route remains open to them, we can never hope to defeat them entirely.
While Samu speaks, a plan begins to form in your mind, a plan that would rid the Masbaté of the demon plague for ever and provide an answer to the problem of delaying the Shadakine Army long enough for you to warn the Freedom Guild of the overwhelming force that marches against them. You remember how the Moonstone opened a corridor from the Daziarn plane to the real world. Surely it must be able to reverse the process and close the portal in the hills east of Lake Tilos.
If it were not for the demon plague,
Samu continues, and the threat it offers, we of the Masbaté would have joined forces with the Freedom Guild long ago but our wives and children must be protected. We could not leave them to the mercies of the demon plague. It is our belief that when the demons cross water they lose their ability to transport themselves to their portal. But if we warriors were not here to withstand them, they would have no need to use that power.
Samu nods in understanding. And who will go with you to the portal?
I will go alone. All of the Masbaté will be needed to hold the bridge. My Magical Powers and the Moonstone will protect me. They must.
Suddenly the door of the king's chamber is thrown open. Tanith stands there, white-faced and trembling. She has found me, Grey Star,
she says in a quavering voice. She has searched and she has found me!
Tanith looks weak; she can barely stand. Her eyes have a terrible haunted look.
Who &ellips; who has found you?
you ask, fearing the answer.
Who&ellips; who has found you?
you ask, fearing the answer.
Mother Magri, my old mistress, the Shadakine Wytch of Suhn. She has searched for me with the Kazim Stone and she has found me. Long I resisted her as she tried to probe my mind. She beckons, Grey Star, she calls, I cannot resist her much longer.
While Tanith remains, she is of great danger to you, for in seeking Tanith Mother Magri will discover that you have returned to the world. As a servant of the Wytch-king, Shasarak, Mother Magri and her power over Tanith imperils your life and your entire quest. Tanith, it seems, has realized this already.
No, you cannot . .
the demon lord splutters in fury.
No, you cannot&ellips;
the Demonlord splutters in fury.
You battle with the power of the demon as it struggles to escape, and throw the last of your
You hurl every last drop of your power at the demon but it is not enough. He is a demon lord, possessing power beyond your wildest imaginings. At first he hesitates, but, seeing that you have used the last of your power, he reaches out and takes you by the neck and hurls you into the wall of fire, through the fiery portal and into the realm of damnation to join Shasarak in an eternity of flame and torment.
+You hurl every last drop of your power at the demon but it is not enough. He is a Demonlord, possessing power beyond your wildest imaginings. At first he hesitates, but, seeing that you have used the last of your power, he reaches out and takes you by the neck and hurls you into the wall of fire, through the fiery portal and into the realm of damnation to join Shasarak in an eternity of flame and torment.
Your quest ends here.
@@ -4190,7 +4261,7 @@ Heralding battle, to regain our hearts.Alas, Grey Star, there is not time for more. The bridge we have created weakens now. Step warily, for the land is beset with dangers, though there are friends there also, friends you would not expect to see &ellips;
Alas, Grey Star, there is not time for more. The bridge we have created weakens now. Step warily, for the land is beset with dangers, though there are friends there also, friends you would not expect to see&ellips;
With these words, his voice fades completely. You pray that the Shianti have conserved enough energy to transport you back to the real world.
If you possess a Temeris Potion you can teleport without using any
You speak your mind to Sado and for once he does not argue. You mount and you and Samu ride either side of the grim-faced leader of the Freedom Guild. Sado gives the command and the entire army surges forward in pursuit of the ghostly figure of the Kazim as it heads purposefully into the night.
The battle that follows is long and terrible. The Freedom Guild almost fail but with Sado's iron leadership and your brave resolve they endure, although the number of casualties is high. The Kazim reclaims its heart of stone, slaying Mother Chowloon, the Shadakine Wytch who bore it. As she dies, much of the fighting fury and ferocity that filled the Shadakine, fades. The Army of the Freedom Guild senses the Shadakine's loss of morale and press home their advantage. Soon, they have beaten the much larger force into a full-scale retreat. The entire Shadakine Army heads north. Sado leads his army in pursuit, turning the retreat into a rout. It is vital that the Shadakine Army does not reach Shadaki, for there they would find new leadership under Shasarak's hand. They are still a large army and with Shasarak to lead them they could turn the tables once again.
The Army of the Freedom Guild pursues the fleeing Shadakine Army across much of the Shadakine Empire. The Shadakine find no place to hide, for all the cities of the Empire are in open revolt. Each Kazim has reclaimed its heart and slain the Shadakine Wytch that ruled each city. During the four days of the pursuit you are not required to exert any energy or use any of your Magical Powers and you regain 8
The Mountains of Lara contain the infamous Morn Pass. It was through this pass that the Shadakine first invaded the provinces of the south. It is the last barrier between you and the fortress city of Shadaki. With growing dread you realize that the time of your final battle with Shasarak is fast approaching. With his armies scattered or destroyed, it only remains for you to challenge him yourself and ensure that the land remains free. Your trepidation is coupled with suspicion. Shasarak has many powers at his disposal. Why then has he not used them to challenge Sado's tiny army, much reduced in numbers? Perhaps there is some other reason why he does not bring his full might to bear?
-Tarama Seeds may be recorded as Special Items since they don't take up space in your Herb Pouch or Backpack. Each Tarama Seed can be used to cast exactly one spell or to use your Wizard's Staff outside of close combat (e.g. to fire a bolt of energy at a distant enemy) without using the normally required
Your trained eye quickly perceives that many unusual plants grow in the forest, some of which are of immense use to your Theurgical powers. The army is well equipped and you are able to borrow many vials from a healer. While Sado and his men watch for the approach of the Shadakine Army, you pass the day searching for various herbs and preparing potions. It is evening by the time you have finished. You have the choice of making and keeping any of the following items for future use. Remember that your Herb Pouch can hold up to eight items, and any other potions may be stored in your Backpack.
Tarama Seeds may be recorded as Special Items since they don't take up space in your Herb Pouch or Backpack. Each Tarama Seed can be used to cast exactly one spell or to use your Wizard's Staff outside of close combat (e.g. to fire a bolt of energy at a distant enemy) without using the normally required
Your Alchemist's eye tells you that many unusual plants grow in the forest, some of which are of great use. You borrow some empty vials from a healer in the army's employ. While Sado and his men watch for the approach of the Shadakine Army, you pass the day searching for various herbs and plants and preparing potions. It is evening by the time you have finished. You have the choice of making and keeping any of the following items for future use. Remember that your Herb Pouch can hold up to eight items, and any other potions may be stored in your Backpack.
These Shadakine are strong of heart. Brave but foolish,
Sado murmurs.
The crossbowmen reload and release another shower of arrows. As the bolts find their targets, many more Shadakine fall dead. More than half their number have now fallen. You look back to the camp: it is still a chaotic mass of rushing men, trying to order themselves and leave. Samu and his Masbaté have already left in good order but they have the advantage of smaller numbers and a strong leader to command them.
The Shadakine continue to advance, their faces set with grim determination. There is no time for the crossbowmen to reload their weapons before the remainder of the Shadakine, almost five hundred men, fall upon the Guild's ranks. At Sado's command, the cavalry charges down the rise at the Shadakine. A furious mêlée ensues but the Shadakine maintain the upper hand and the cavalry are forced to retreat in disorder. It will not be long before the Shadakine are fighting against the bulk of the army of the Freedom Guild, who are still attempting to flee into the forest. Looking to the distant hills, you see the reason for this early raid by the Shadakine. A line of Shadakine chariots has appeared. From earlier encounters with the Shadakine, you know that sharpened blades adorn the wheels of the chariots. You shudder to think of the harm they could inflict on the disordered lines of the retiring Freedom Guild.
-Staff clashes against Staff and the hall is filled with flame as you fight. Agarash's unholy joy ripples through the room in peals of mocking laughter, the black, fathomless eyes following every move. You are locked in a duel with your arch enemy.
+Staff clashes against Staff and the hall is filled with flame as you fight. Agarash's unholy joy ripples through the room in peals of mocking laughter, the black, fathomless eyes following every move. You are locked in a duel with your arch-enemy.
We are only able to send you to the Lissan Plain, the north-western province of the Shadakine Empire (see the map at the beginning of the book). This was once the domain of the Masbaté tribe, warrior nomads of great prowess and strength. It was Shasarak who brought doom to these once-great people, when the Shadakine Empire was first won. In a terrible war, hordes of Shadakine warriors pursued the Masbaté across the plains in their great war chariots, led by the Wytch-king himself. The Masbaté were able to resist the Shadakine, despite overwhelming odds, until Shasarak summoned the demon plague. Faced with such an assault, the Masbaté were unable to resist and an entire race was wiped from the face of the world. The demons still roam the plains, and no one dares go there. The vast expanse of the Lissan Plain was once rich and fertile. Now, none may benefit from it, save for the scavenging packs of hell beasts that roam there.
We are only able to send you to the Lissan Plain, the north-western province of the Shadakine Empire (see the map). This was once the domain of the Masbaté tribe, warrior nomads of great prowess and strength. It was Shasarak who brought doom to these once-great people, when the Shadakine Empire was first won. In a terrible war, hordes of Shadakine warriors pursued the Masbaté across the plains in their great war chariots, led by the Wytch-king himself. The Masbaté were able to resist the Shadakine, despite overwhelming odds, until Shasarak summoned the demon plague. Faced with such an assault, the Masbaté were unable to resist and an entire race was wiped from the face of the world. The demons still roam the plains, and no one dares go there. The vast expanse of the Lissan Plain was once rich and fertile. Now, none may benefit from it, save for the scavenging packs of hell beasts that roam there.
His voice has begun to grow very faint.
Shasarak's torment is written in deep lines upon his ruined face. The wall of fire is a portal to Agarash's realm. Shasarak's bargain is to change places with Agarash, setting the demon free and enduring Agarash's banishment for all time. He chooses eternal torment before eternal death.
As Shasarak disappears through the wall, Agarash calls out with glee, Free, free at last!
The eyes disappear and a vast, flaming shoulder moves out from the wall. You glimpse a wing and a clawed foot.
In a stunning display of battle skills, you hack a path of blazing, magical fire through the Shadakine ranks. On the bridge you can hear the cheering of the Masbaté as you wreak terrible havoc among your foes. They urge you on, their cries growing louder as you draw nearer. Suddenly your horse is cut from under you and you throw yourself clear and on to the stone bridge to run the last steps towards the Masbaté. They rush forward to protect your flanks. You are safe. Samu rushes to meet you. Grey Star, that was magnificent &ellips;
he begins.
No time &ellips; no time,
you pant. Sound the retreat. We must flee. See? I have brought the demon plague.
In a stunning display of battle skills, you hack a path of blazing, magical fire through the Shadakine ranks. On the bridge you can hear the cheering of the Masbaté as you wreak terrible havoc among your foes. They urge you on, their cries growing louder as you draw nearer. Suddenly your horse is cut from under you and you throw yourself clear and on to the stone bridge to run the last steps towards the Masbaté. They rush forward to protect your flanks. You are safe. Samu rushes to meet you. Grey Star, that was magnificent&ellips;
he begins.
No time&ellips; no time,
you pant. Sound the retreat. We must flee. See? I have brought the demon plague.
It is as you say. Even now, across the river, you can see a wild, screaming mass as the demon horde battles with the Shadakine. Samu nods and springs into action. He sounds a battle horn and the Masbaté retire. The Shadakine cannot pursue while the demon host fights at their back. However, you must destroy the bridge to prevent pursuit should the Shadakine, whose entire army numbers in thousands defeat the demon plague too soon.
It appears that for every Phinomel Pod that you possess and wish to throw into the Leafwater pool, you may permanently raise your
You see a deep pool of greenish liquid called Leafwater, a strange and unique plant. When Phinomel pods are cast into the pool the watery substance is transformed. For every pod you cast into it, add 1 to your
You see a deep pool of greenish liquid called Leafwater, a strange and unique plant. When Phinomel Pods are cast into the pool the watery substance is transformed. For every pod you cast into it, add 1 to your
You hurl the fury of your last desperate attack at the portal, attempting to close it.
-NO!
the demon thunders. Do not &ellips;
NO!
the demon thunders. Do not&ellips;
You battle on as the demon struggles to escape with all its power. You must close the portal and tear down the wall. Flame rages around the hall, striving against the purity of the Moonstone's light. A yawning blackness threatens to engulf you as a hurricane of might swirls out from the Moonstone and assaults the portal, a doorway to damnation. You fall to your knees and look up into the raging wall of incandescence before slipping into unconsciousness.
You wake to see the face of Tanith looking into yours. You sit up with a jolt. You are lying in a bed in a tall tower. The portal &ellips; Agarash &ellips; is he &ellips;?
you stammer.
Tanith smiles. All vanquished,
she replies. The demon lord, Agarash and his portal of fire have gone and Shasarak with them. You have triumphed, Grey Star. We are saved.
You wake to see the face of Tanith looking into yours. You sit up with a jolt. You are lying in a bed in a tall tower. The portal&ellips; Agarash&ellips; is he&ellips;?
you stammer.
Tanith smiles. All vanquished,
she replies. The Demonlord Agarash and his portal of fire have gone and Shasarak with them. You have triumphed, Grey Star. We are saved.
With a wild laugh you leap from the bed and hug Tanith with joy. You have saved your people. Come,
she says, leading you to a doorway. It opens on to a balcony that overlooks a large square in the centre of the city of Shadaki. There you look upon a huge crowd. They let out a thunderous cheer as they see you.
Later you retire to the chamber. Standing there are Sado of the Long Knife and Samu, the Masbaté King. You clasp their outstretched hands, eyes brimming with tears of happiness. You grin furiously, glad to see that they are alive. A wave of exultant relief runs through you as you receive their grateful thanks and congratulations. They tell you that the Shadakine have fled back to the Sadi Desert. All the cities of the land are free capitals as before. The long task of rebuilding has already begun and all sing your praise to the furthest comers of what was once the Shadakine Empire. They have proclaimed you their ruler, the Wizard Regent of the Free Peoples, for their faith and trust in your wisdom and courage is unshakable.
Hail! Wizard Grey Star, Shianti Hero and Saviour.
+ @@ -4604,11 +4693,15 @@ Heralding battle, to regain our hearts.This epilogue to the Grey Star series was included in Lone Wolf Club Newsletter 7.
And so it was that the shame of the Shianti was absolved. With the defeat of the Wytch-king, Shasarak, the renegade Shianti Master, the Shadakine Empire he had built fell. The Shadakine people fled back to their former home in the Sadi Desert, and Grey Star&emdash;the champion of the Shianti cause&emdash;was proclaimed Wizard Regent
of the free peoples of the old empire, to oversee a time of rebirth and liberty. The only Shadakine who did not return to the Sadi Desert was the Lady Tanith. She and Grey Star were soon married, as many foretold they would, to form the founding line of a magiocracy destined to rule the new confederation of free states formed from the ashes of the old empire. For the Shianti themselves a higher destiny dawned. The Goddess Ishir came to them on the Isle of Lorn and took them up to the Plane of Light. Their reward was to dwell as immortals by her side and in her service in peace and serenity.
The Wizard Grey Star saw them once before they departed and many fond and sad farewells were exchanged. To Grey Star was bequeathed the nature of true Shianti wisdom, the last of their ancient magical secrets which only a lifetime's study would unlock from the hundreds of dusty volumes, scrolls, and magical artifacts. The Moonstone was given into the care of the Shianti and taken with them into the Plane of Light, for still its power was too great to remain on Magnamund.
-Grey Star then returned to his people. Sado of the Long Knife was made general of the army, King Samu had his lands in the Lissan Plain restored to him, and Urik the Wise of the Kundi peoples was summoned to act as advisor to the Wizard Regent and Lady Tanith the Wytch-Queen. Despite his newfound responsibilities and duties, Grey Star looked forward to a time of hope and happiness. In this far corner of Magnamund, at least for now, peace reigned.
-And so ends the chronicle of the first quest of the Wizard Grey Star.
+And so it was that the shame of the Shianti was absolved. With the defeat of the Wytch-king, Shasarak, the renegade Shianti Master, the Shadakine Empire he had built fell. The Shadakine people fled back to their former home in the Sadi Desert, and Grey Star&emdash;the champion of the Shianti cause&emdash;was proclaimed Wizard Regent
of the free peoples of the old empire, to oversee a time of rebirth and liberty. The only Shadakine who did not return to the Sadi Desert was the Lady Tanith. She and Grey Star were soon married, as many foretold they would be, to form the founding line of a magiocracy destined to rule the new confederation of free states formed from the ashes of the old empire. For the Shianti themselves a higher destiny dawned. The Goddess Ishir came to them on the Isle of Lorn and took them up to the Plane of Light. Their reward was to dwell as immortals by her side and in her service in peace and serenity.
The Wizard Grey Star saw them once before they departed and many fond and sad farewells were exchanged. To Grey Star was bequeathed the nature of true Shianti wisdom, the last of their ancient magical secrets which only a lifetime's study would unlock from the hundreds of dusty volumes, scrolls, and magical artefacts. The Moonstone was given into the care of the Shianti and taken with them into the Plane of Light, for still its power was too great to remain on Magnamund.
+Grey Star then returned to his people. Sado of the Long Knife was made general of the army, King Samu had his lands in the Lissan Plain restored to him, and Urik the Wise of the Kundi peoples was summoned to act as advisor to the Wizard Regent and Lady Tanith the Wytch-queen. Despite his newfound responsibilities and duties, Grey Star looked forward to a time of hope and happiness. In this far corner of Magnamund, at least for now, peace reigned.
+And so ends the chronicle of the first quest of the Wizard Grey Star.
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with deduct 4
.
(20) Replaced life-less
with lifeless
.
(21) Replaced life force
with life-force
.
(24) Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
. Replaced this power
with this Power
. Replaced these powers
with these Powers
.
(25) Replaced 1 coil of Rope
with Coil of Rope
. Replaced 1 Sword and Sheath
with Sword and Sheath
. Replaced 1 Spear
with Spear
. Replaced 1 Dagger and Sheath
with Dagger and Sheath
. Replaced 1 Water Bottle
with Water Bottle
. Replaced 1 Tinder box
with Tinder box
.
(29) Replaced 1 Backpack
with Backpack
. Replaced 1 Coil of Rope
with Coil of Rope
. Replaced 1 Water Bottle
with Water Bottle
. Replaced 1 Tinderbox
with Tinderbox
. Replaced 1 Sword
with Sword
. Replaced 1 Masbaté Battle Horn
with Masbaté Battle Horn
.
(34) Replaced you. they
with you. They
. Replaced a pestle and mortar
with a Pestle and Mortar
. Replaced empty vial
with empty Vial
. Replaced all occurrences of saltpetre
with Saltpetre
. Replaced all occurrences of sulphur
with Sulphur
. Replaced The empty vials
with The empty Vials
. Replaced Zakutsk flower
with Zakutsk Flower
. Replaced Demeril root
with Demeril Root
. Replaced Pestle and Mortar are Backpack Items
with Pestle and Mortar and the Tinderbox are Backpack Items,
. Replaced the vials
with the Vials
. Replaced wil
with will
.
(25) Replaced 1 coil of Rope
with Coil of Rope
. Replaced 1 Sword and Sheath
with Sword and Sheath
. Replaced 1 Spear
with Spear
. Replaced 1 Dagger and Sheath
with Dagger and Sheath
. Replaced 1 Water Bottle
with Water Bottle
. Replaced 1 Tinder box
with Tinderbox
. Replaced 1 Torch counts as 1 Backpack Item
with each Torch counts as one Backpack Item
.
(28) Replaced evade combat turn
with evade combat, turn
.
(29) Replaced 1 Backpack
with Backpack
. Replaced 1 Coil of Rope
with Coil of Rope
. Replaced 1 Water Bottle
with Water Bottle
. Replaced 1 Tinderbox
with Tinderbox
. Replaced 1 Sword
with Sword
. Replaced 1 Masbaté Battle Horn
with Masbaté Battle Horn
. Replaced high magick of Necromancy
with Higher Magick of Necromancy
.
(32) Replaced half-way
with halfway
.
(33) Replaced pear
with spear
.
(34) Replaced you. they
with you. They
. Replaced a pestle and mortar
with a Pestle and Mortar
. Replaced empty vial
with empty Vial
. Replaced all occurrences of saltpetre
with Saltpetre
. Replaced all occurrences of sulphur
with Sulphur
. Replaced The empty vials
with The empty Vials
. Replaced Zakutsk flower
with Zakutsk Flower
. Replaced Demeril root
with Demeril Root
. Replaced Pestle and Mortar are Backpack Items
with Pestle and Mortar and the Tinderbox are Backpack Items,
. Replaced the vials
with the Vials
. Replaced wil
with will
. Replaced 1 Pestle and Mortar
with Pestle and Mortar
. Replaced 1 Tinderbox
with Tinderbox
.
(36) Replaced neither you nor Tanith have
with neither you nor Tanith has
.
(38) Replaced feet away. The home
with feet away. &lsquot;The home
. Replaced persectuion
with persecution
. Replaced dematerilize
with dematerialize
. Replaced warior
with warrior
. Replaced mightly
with mighty
.
(39) Replaced Demon Lord, Agarash
with Demonlord Agarash
. Replaced If you wish
with If you have 1
.
(40) Replaced Phinomel pods
with Phinomel Pods
.
(42) Replaced ceatures
with creatures
. Replaced despatching
with dispatching
.
(43) Replaced surrrounds
with surrounds
. Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
. Replaced this power
with this Power
. Replaced these powers
with these Powers
.
(47) Replaced half-way
with halfway
. Replaced Agarash's
with Agarashi's
.
(49) Replaced a Special Item, which may
with an item on your Action Chart. It may
. Replaced or your Herb Pouch
with or in your Herb Pouch
. Replaced all occurrences of empty vials
with empty Vials
.
(50) Replaced Intinctively
with Instinctively
. Replaced this power
with this Power
.
(58) Replaced your power
with your Power
. Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(57) Made the last sentence a paragraph of its own.
+(58) Replaced your power
with your Power
. Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
. Moved the third choice up to the first position.
(60) Replaced Neither you nor Tanith have
with Neither you nor Tanith has
.
(67) Replaced stone. and
with stone, and
. Replaced wierd
with weird
. Replaced toadbeasts
with toad beasts
. Replaced this power
with this Power
.
(68) Replaced jubliant
with jubilant
.
(69) Replaced incandesence
with incandescence
.
(79) Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(82) Replaced reptillian
with reptilian
.
(86) Replaced all occurrences of higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(84) Replaced empty vial
with empty Vial
.
(86) Replaced all occurrences of higher magick
with Higher Magick
. Added a fourth choice If you do not possess any of the above Powers, you must attack the bridge with your Staff; turn to 175.
(cf. Section 280).
(91) Replaced strenghtening
with strenghening
. Replaced waves of sorcery
with waves of Sorcery
. Replaced it's clawed hand
with its clawed hand
.
(93) Replaced materialzed
with materialized
.
(97) Replaced semi-circle
with semicircle
.
(99) Replaced fast flowing
with fast-flowing
.
(104) Replaced crowd of demons are
with crowd of demons is
.
(108) Replaced enchantment
with Enchantment
.
(113) Replaced magical Power
with Magical Power
.
(115) Replaced all occurrences of powers
with Powers
. Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(125) Replaced life forces
with life-forces
.
(129) Replaced life force
with life-force
.
(129) Replaced life force
with life-force
. Replaced arch enemy
with arch-enemy
.
(135) Replaced balustraded gallerys
with balustraded galleries
.
(137) Replaced group of demons are
with group of demons is
.
(137) Replaced group of demons are
with group of demons is
. Moved the illustration that was located in this Section to Section 139, as the event it depicts is described there.
(139) Replaced The horde stop
with The horde stops
. Moved the illustration that was located in Section 137 here, as the event it depicts is described here. Replaced the illustration caption You hurl a cascading rain of magical fire on to the head of the demonic horde below.
with Your heart misses a beat as a huge pair of monstrous eyes appears within the flames of the portal.
(141) Replaced large, reptilian
with large reptilian
.
(142) Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
. Replaced these powers
with these Powers
.
(147) Replaced half-way
with halfway
. Replaced small, black
with small black
.
(161) Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(162) Replaced power of Prophecy
with Power of Prophecy
.
(165) Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(167) Replaced all occurrences of Demon lord
with Demonlord
.
(170) Replaced the demon horde are
with the demon horde is
. Replaced half-way
with halfway
. Replaced out-rider
with outrider
. Replaced power of Sorcery
with Power of Sorcery
. Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(172) Replaced retatively
with relatively
. Replaced she cries &lsquot;Something
with she cries. &lsquot;Something
.
(175) Replaced ie 2
with i.e. 2
.
(175) Replaced lack. (ie 2
with lack (i.e. 2
.
(176) Replaced Demon lord
with Demonlord
.
(180) Replaced death blow
with death-blow
.
(181) Replaced power of Physiurgy
with Power of Physiurgy
. Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(184) Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(194) Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
. Replaced these powers
with these Powers
.
(196) Replaced power of Sorcery
with Power of Sorcery
.
(200) Replaced column reach
with column reaches
. Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(201) Replaced you ashore. I am
with you ashore. &lsquot;I am
. Replaced host of Masbaté warriors wait
with host of Masbaté warriors waits
. Replaced fleet-footed wariors
with fleet-footed warriors
.
(201) Replaced you ashore. I am
with you ashore. &lsquot;I am
. Replaced host of Masbaté warriors wait
with host of Masbaté warriors waits
. Replaced fleet-footed wariors
with fleet-footed warriors
. Replaced shore&rsquot;, he
with shore,&rsquot; he
.
(202) Replaced half-way
with halfway
.
(203) Replaced this power
with this Power
.
(204) Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(208) Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
. Replaced these powers
with these Powers
.
(208) Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
. Replaced these powers
with these Powers
. Replaced Magical Power of Thaumaturgy
with Higher Magick of Thaumaturgy
.
(213) Replaced look-out
with lookout
.
(216) Replaced pupiless
with pupilless
.
(217) Replaced power of Telergy
with Power of Telergy
. Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(218) Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(220) Replaced enery
with energy
.
(221) Replaced plunge into
with plunges into
.
(225) Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
. Replaced these powers
with these Powers
.
(229) Replaced Half-way
with Halfway
.
(230) Replaced Pin-points
with Pinpoints
.
(233) Replaced half-way
with halfway
. Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(234) Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
. Replaced these powers
with these Powers
.
(237) Replaced all occurrences of higher magick
with Higher Magick
. Replaced power of Necromancy
with Power of Necromancy
. Replaced power as a Visionary
with Power as a Visionary
. Replaced these powers
with these Powers
.
(287) Replaced realise
with realize
.
(289) Replaced this power
with this Power
.
(291) Replaced shield of sorcery
with
.
(293) Replaced battle cry
with battle-cry
.
(294) Replaced backpack
with Backpack
.
(298) Replaced magical powers
with Magical Powers
.
(293) Replaced battle cry
with battle-cry
. Replaced the horde begin
with the horde begins
.
(294) Replaced backpack
with Backpack
. Replaced empty vial
with empty Vial
.
(298) Replaced magical powers
with Magical Powers
. Replaced new-found
with newfound
.
(299) Replaced feet lies
with feet lie
.
(302) Replaced ememy
with enemy
.
(304) Replaced Turn 235
with Turn to 235
.
(309) Replaced zig-zag
with zigzag
.
(312) Replaced guildsmen
with Guildsmen
.
(316) Replaced cannot . .
with cannot&ellips;
. Replaced demon lord
with Demonlord
.
(317) Replaced fomation
with formation
. Replaced Combat last
with Combat lasts
.
(320) Replaced kock
with knock
.
(321) Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(322) Replaced demon lord
with Demonlord
.
(324) Replaced war horn
with war-horn
.
(328) Replaced Shadkine Army
with Shadakine Army
. Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(331) Replaced six items
with eight items
.
(331) Replaced six items
with eight items
. Replaced Tamara Seeds
with Tarama Seeds
, as in Grey Star the Wizard. Replaced Phinomel pods
with Phinomel Pods
.
(332) Replaced tree-tops
with treetops
.
(336) Replaced will hold up to six items may be stored
with can hold up to eight items, and any other potions may be stored
.
(337) Replaced hail of arrows that fly
with hail of arrows that flies
. Replaced melée
with mêlée
. Replaced all occurrences of higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(336) Replaced will hold up to six items may be stored
with can hold up to eight items, and any other potions may be stored
. Replaced Tamara Seeds
with Tarama Seeds
, as in Grey Star the Wizard. Replaced Phinomel pods
with Phinomel Pods
.
(337) Replaced hail of arrows that fly
with hail of arrows that flies
. Replaced melée
with mêlée
. Replaced all occurrences of higher magick
with Higher Magick
. Moved the first choice into the last position.
(340) Replaced forboding
with foreboding
.
(343) Replaced superstitous
with superstitious
.
(345) Replaced arch enemy
with arch-enemy
.
(347) Replaced beleagured
with beleaguered
. Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(348) Deleted at the beginning of the book
.
(350) Replaced demon lord
with Demonlord
.
(352) Replaced higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(353) Replaced all occurrences of higher magick
with Higher Magick
.
(Combat Rules Summary) Added a fourth step Pick a number from the Random Number Table.
in the first step list. Replaced Turn to Combat Results Table
with Turn to the Combat Results Table
. Replaced cross reference
with cross-reference
.
(353) Replaced all occurrences of higher magick
with Higher Magick
. Added a fourth choice If you do not possess any of the above Powers, you must attack the bridge with your Staff; turn to 175.
(cf. Section 280).
(355) Replaced Phinomel pods
with Phinomel Pods
.
(360) Added a link to the Passing of the Shianti epilogue. Replaced The demon lord, Agarash
with The Demonlord Agarash
.
(The Passing of the Shianti) Replaced artifacts
with artefacts
. Replaced as many foretold they would
with as many foretold they would be
.
(Combat Rules Summary) Added a fourth step Pick a number from the Random Number Table.
in the first step list. Replaced Turn to Combat Results Table
with Turn to the Combat Results Table
. Replaced cross reference
with cross-reference
.
(The Game Rules) This section of the rules implies that you must re-pick your
(The Game Rules) It is implied that you must pick a new
(The Game Rules) The original intent of the author was most likely that the player should add 50 to their final
(The Game Rules) There are sections of this book that describe how you use a Magical Power and how many
You may wish to use this method to resolve this problem in similar situations. If your
Note that you may not choose to use a Magical Power or your Wizard's Staff if you do not have sufficient
(The Game Rules) It is possible for your
(The Game Rules) The original intent of the author was most likely that the player should add 30 to their final
(Magical Powers) The wording of this section of the rules seems to indicate&emdash;if read literally&emdash;that you may choose your set of Lesser Magicks again if you have completed a previous adventure. This is without precedent in other books. In order to preserve consistency with other books, you should not choose your Lesser Magicks again. If you have currently mastered five Lesser Magicks, you may choose one additional Lesser Magick from the list. If you have already mastered six Lesser Magicks, you keep these. If you choose Alchemy as a new Lesser Magick, or you have not mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy but you have selected the Higher Magick of Theurgy, you also receive a Herb Pouch with contents, as detailed in the Equipment section.
+(Magical Powers) If your
(Equipment) If you have completed a previous adventure, you keep all equipment you had at the end of that adventure. You do not receive any new equipment, unless you have just selected Alchemy as your sixth Lesser Magick, or if you have not mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy but you have selected the Higher Magick of Theurgy, in which case you receive a Herb Pouch with contents as indicated in this section.
(Equipment) If you have mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy or the Higher Magick of Theurgy and therefore have a Herb Pouch, you may choose to keep potions, vials, or ingredients in either the Herb Pouch or your Backpack. All other Backpack Items must be kept in your Backpack.
+(25) If you wish to take the Sheath, record it as a Special Item on your Action Chart.
+(25) If you wish to take the Sheath, record it as a Special Item on your Action Chart.
+(47) Although the term Agarashi
is not used anywhere else in the Grey Star books, it is used in other books as the collective term for the monstrous servants of Agarash the Damned.
(104) If you do not have sufficient
(112) If you do not have sufficient
(139) If you do not have sufficient
(145) Remember to deduct 1
(193) If you do not have sufficient
(328) If you possess a Temeris Potion you can teleport without using any
(331) Tarama Seeds may be recorded as Special Items since they don't take up space in your Herb Pouch or Backpack. Each Tarama Seed can be used to cast exactly one spell or to use your Wizard's Staff outside of close combat (e.g. to fire a bolt of energy at a distant enemy) without using the normally required
(336) Tarama Seeds may be recorded as Special Items since they don't take up space in your Herb Pouch or Backpack. Each Tarama Seed can be used to cast exactly one spell or to use your Wizard's Staff outside of close combat (e.g. to fire a bolt of energy at a distant enemy) without using the normally required
(355) It appears that for every Phinomel Pod that you possess and wish to throw into the Leafwater pool, you may permanently raise your
(The Passing of the Shianti) This epilogue to the Grey Star series was included in Lone Wolf Club Newsletter 7.