From 20c4bc96a6f08ee9d2dadd0acd177cb69755eacf Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Jonathan Blake Date: Thu, 21 Apr 2005 15:53:05 +0000 Subject: [PATCH] jffdougan said: Added illustrations, implemented minor approved fixes git-svn-id: https://projectaon.org/data/trunk@51 f6f3e2d7-ff33-0410-aaf5-b4bee2cdac11 --- xml/02tfc.xml | 268 ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++--------- xml/03btng.xml | 214 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++-------- 2 files changed, 392 insertions(+), 90 deletions(-) diff --git a/xml/02tfc.xml b/xml/02tfc.xml index 5f6a2aa..156119f 100755 --- a/xml/02tfc.xml +++ b/xml/02tfc.xml @@ -20,8 +20,8 @@ $Id$ $Log$ -Revision 1.3 2005/04/01 22:31:03 jonathan.blake -Illustration code added by jffdougan - still needs dimensions +Revision 1.4 2005/04/21 15:53:05 jonathan.blake +jffdougan said: Added illustrations, implemented minor approved fixes Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake Removed link to old staff email address. @@ -95,7 +95,20 @@ Revision 1.1 2002/10/20 05:53:46 jblake Initial revision --> - + The Forbidden City Ian Page and Joe Dever @@ -162,6 +175,8 @@ Initial revision
Transcription
Ryan Cross
+
Illustration Transcription
+
Jonathan Blake
Simon Osborne
XML
Jonathan Blake
Jeff Dougan
Thomas Wolmer
Alternate Illustrations
@@ -585,8 +600,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The wooden turrets of a forest castle, surrounded by an ocean of cloud - - + +

You are brought before the Kundi king once more. He and his advisers are gathered in the largest of the tree houses and old Urik ushers you in. You are well? the king asks. You nod your head and thank him and his people for treating you with such kindness.

Long ago, the king continues, before Wytch-king, Shasarak, rose in the north, the Shianti and Kundi tribes&emdash;great friends. Shianti need magical sight of Kundi to look into other worlds, see other planes. Only Shianti can go there. Only Kundi can see there&ellips; We help each other. Learn many things. But when Shianti leave, Wytch-king lead Shadakine peoples against us, burning the forests of our home in Mountains of Lara. Now, Shianti send great wizard to destroy evil Wytch-king, throw down Shadakine. Kundi men give all their help, in honour of our friendship. How we aid you?

@@ -640,8 +655,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner A mass of slime and mud rises up out of the quagmire, it is a Swamp Giant - - + + Swamp Giant1630 If you win the combat, turn to 65. @@ -856,8 +871,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The barren expanse of Desolation Valley. A vast wasteland of melted rock and craters - - + +

I know not, he says, but Shadow Gate very near. Down below ground. Without hesitation, you begin to sprint across the plain and Urik follows. Gone is all your weariness and fatigue now that you are near your goal. The pot-holes lead downwards but there are hundreds of them; which way should you go?

Suddenly, a gruesome sight slithers from one of these holes. Its long, snaking body is bone white and skeletal; but its pale eyes, without pupils, reveal a deadly malice, a blind evil. It is a Scree Wyrm and it is slithering towards you.

@@ -946,8 +961,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The Warward walks towards the Shadakine Wytch, unable to resist the desire to slay - - + +

Before the Wytch can resist, the Warward strangles her to death. Immediately the light of the Kazim Stone is extinguished and the Shadakine warriors before the fortress falter. With a jubilant cry, the soldiers of the Freedom Guild charge forwards.

Turn to 48. @@ -1152,6 +1167,13 @@ Initial revision

You leave the city far behind, as you and Urik struggle to match the pace of the giant's long stride. You head north for the Belzar River, which traces a westerly course towards the Mountains of Morn and the infamous dead lands. By the time you reach the river, night is upon you and you are nearly asleep on your feet. You tell the giant that you are too exhausted to continue and he stops to allow you to make camp. He has a supply of food which he shares with you before you fall into a deep sleep by the gentle lapping of the waters of the Belzar River.

+ + + Paul Bonner + + + +

The following morning, you continue on your journey. The Belzar Hills on the far side of the river seem to frown upon you as you pass and you are troubled by a gnawing doubt. Urik seems to share this doubt and he continually looks over his shoulder with an anxious expression on his face. When you stop at midday to rest, you voice your doubt to your companions.

There is a simple explanation, says Samu, confidently. We are being followed.

You dart a startled look at Urik. I think Samu speak truth, he says.

@@ -1263,8 +1285,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner Held in a headlock is a scrawny man, the thief from the cavern of the Freedom Guild - - + +

What are you doing here? you repeat, angrily. Samu tightens his grip on the thief's neck.

Being&ellips; strangled! he squawks, clawing desperately at the thick arm around his neck.

@@ -1309,6 +1331,13 @@ Initial revision

The water is poisonous and, as it affects your body, you panic and begin to sink. Hugi and Urik have already reached the other side but, as soon as Samu sees you struggling, he strikes out towards you. With strong hands he grabs your robe and pulls you to the surface. Panting and gasping for breath, he hurls you to the safety of the river bank and slowly you crawl up the bank. The water you have swallowed has cost you 2 ENDURANCE points. Suddenly, Urik gives a cry: Samu!

You turn in time to see Samu's flailing arms disappear beneath the surface of the water. You are stunned and dismayed. He disappears completely from sight, swept away by the waters of the poisonous Belzar River.

With tears in your eyes, you walk in silence towards the walls of the Forbidden City.

+ + + Paul Bonner + + + + Turn to 124. @@ -1355,8 +1384,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner A gaze of unbreakable malice focuses on your heart: you look upon Shasarak, Wytch-king of Shadaki - - + +

You fear me now, foolish child, and you think that you have mastered fear. I will teach you the true meaning of terror. I will make you yearn for death as if it were your true love! Shasarak raises his clawed, decaying hand and clutches his fingers in the air: 1 WILLPOWER point is drawn effortlessly from your body.

You wake up screaming.

@@ -1421,7 +1450,14 @@ Initial revision

The Deathgaunt looks on as you usher your three companions within the protection of the pentacle. You possess no Magical Power capable of damaging this creature, for its body is not of the real world; your Wizard's Staff cannot help you here. You remain within the pentacle and continue to chant the warding words of Evocation. Eventually, with a whispered cry of frustration, the Deathgaunt dematerializes.

-

You press on through the barren wilderness, more anxious than ever to reach your goal. The Deathgaunt has given up its attack for now but it is not destroyed and could return at any time. That night, with the Black Mountains of Morn looming above you, you stop to make camp.

+

You press on through the barren wilderness, more anxious than ever to reach your goal. The Deathgaunt has given up its attack for now but it is not destroyed and could return at any time. That night, with the black Mountains of Morn looming above you, you stop to make camp.

+ + + Paul Bonner + + + + If you possess the Magical Power of Alchemy and have some Azawood leaves in your Herb Pouch, turn to 299. If not, turn to 265. @@ -1470,8 +1506,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The deranged king prepares to dine - - + +

The king stands up, brandishing a rusty carving knife. Would you like an arm or a leg? he enquires innocently.

If you wish to accept, turn to 108. @@ -1500,8 +1536,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner You hide in the tall reeds as the Shadakine seek you out - - + + If you wish to struggle out of the quicksand into which you are being drawn, turn to 115. If you would prefer to keep still, at least until the Shadakine have passed, turn to 235. @@ -1532,6 +1568,13 @@ Initial revision

Samu sets the pace, reaching forward with great strides to lead you across the gently undulating plain that lies between Karnali and the mountains of the west. The Belzar Hills on the far side of the river east a shadow across the waters, as though disapproving of your choice of destination.

+ + + Paul Bonner + + + +

As the miles slip by, a growing feeling of uneasiness nags at your mind. You notice that Urik is constantly looking over his shoulder, his face clouded with uncertainty. In the afternoon, you stop to rest and you voice your doubts to Samu and Urik. Ah! So you, too, have noticed! says Samu. I felt this just after we set out. I fear we are being followed. Startled, you flash a look at Urik.

Me think it true, he says.

If you wish to lie in wait, to ambush whoever is following you, turn to 22. @@ -1756,6 +1799,13 @@ Initial revision

The cover of the tome is emblazoned with a Shianti rune. A deep dread stirs in your heart as you slowly translate the meaning of the symbol&emdash;Shasarak. This symbol can mean but one thing: your mortal enemy, Shasarak the Wytch-king, is a Shianti Master! If you decide to keep the book, mark it on your Action Chart as a Backpack Item. At the bottom of the chest you notice a slender Black Rod, with the rune of Shasarak upon its silver tip. If you wish to keep this Black Rod, mark it on your Action Chart as a Special Item (which you carry in a pocket of your robe).

+ + + Paul Bonner + + + +

Meanwhile, Hugi has busied himself with his search for gold. No gold&ellips; nothing, he blubbers.

Come now, we have no time for this, Hugi. Is there another way out of here?

Disgruntled by the lack of treasure, Hugi ambles to the far side of the cavern and points to an outcrop of rough-hewn granite. Here is a door, he says, but it is magic-locked. A problem for you to solve, eh Wizard?

@@ -1844,6 +1894,13 @@ Initial revision

The land beyond the Mountains of Morn, the region that is called Desolation Valley, was once the heart of a great kingdom, a nation called Taklakot. One day, a mighty wizard came amongst them, and he bore a great gift, so they thought. It was a magical stone which harnessed the fire of the sun. The people of Taklakot grew in knowledge but it was a power gained without wisdom and a great calamity befell them. Somehow, the fire of the Sun stone was released and in a single day an entire race was wiped from the face of the Earth. The barren land you see around you is the result of that fateful day; its curse still lingers.

But what of the Forbidden City? Why does it still stand? asks Samu.

The mountains that surround the valley held the blast. The Forbidden City, or Gyanima as it was called, stands beyond those mountains. It was built to guard the pass through the mountains and is the only remnant of a dead civilization. A greedy light gleams in Hugi's eyes. The value of its treasures is immeasurable, he breathes.

+ + + Paul Bonner + + + +

Your Shianti training and lifestyle have taught you to place no value on material wealth and you soon lose interest in Hugi's tales of hidden gold. Once more, you ponder the incredible bleakness of the place. You gaze across the Belzar River, and to the hills beyond, and an involuntary shiver runs down your spine. Drifting down from the hills, you see an eerie, chilling sight. A ghostly, pallid form floats across the river, its hands outstretched towards you; it whispers with a voice like grating stone.

If you wish to fire a bolt of magical energy from your Staff at the ghostly form, turn to 132. If you wish to wait for it to come closer, turn to 209. @@ -1917,6 +1974,13 @@ Initial revision

You decide to fight fire with fire and hurl a bolt of flaming energy at the wall of fire. Your attack is ineffective: the wall of flame neither flickers nor wavers. You have expended 2 WILLPOWER points in your attack. (Remember to make the necessary adjustment to your Action Chart.)

+ + + Paul Bonner + + + + Turn to 240. @@ -1991,8 +2055,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner A bony man regards you with wild eyes - - + +

Puzzled, you look at the archway and then up at the grime-encrusted man. You can see no gate.

If you wish to humour the Gatekeeper, turn to 212. @@ -2014,8 +2078,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner Two pale eyes protrude above the water, cold and emotionless - - + + If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and wish to create a magical shield capable of deflecting missiles, turn to 181. If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it, turn to 230. @@ -2060,6 +2124,13 @@ Initial revision

Steeling yourself for the long march through the night, you strike out and pray that the Deathgaunts do not appear. You are already tired, and the chill fever that the Deathgaunts have inflicted on you is wearing down your resistance.

Stumbling with fatigue through the inky black night, you lose 2 ENDURANCE points through lack of sleep, but your heart lifts when, with the coming of dawn, you see the shattered outline of a city couched in the hills at the foot of the mountains at the point where the Belzar River forks.

+ + + Paul Bonner + + + + Turn to 52. @@ -2089,6 +2160,13 @@ Initial revision

You release the might of your Wizard's Staff and its flame shoots towards the spectre on the water. To your surprise, however, it passes straight through, inflicting no damage. This creature is a Deathgaunt, an undead being summoned to the world of the living by the Wytch-king himself. Your unsuccessful assault has cost you 2 WILLPOWER points.

+ + + Paul Bonner + + + + Turn to 169. @@ -2111,7 +2189,7 @@ Initial revision

There must be some way through them, you say, and I will find it.

There is only one known pass, Sado continues, but it holds the greatest peril of all&emdash;Gyanima, the Forbidden City&ellips; the City of the Dead! He shakes his head solemnly. Will you not turn away from this reckless course?

You shrug. There is no other way. Urik's vision leads to Desolation Valley and my quest takes me there.

-

Sado falls silent and an Uncomfortable quiet follows. Finally, you rise and bid Sado goodnight, for you intend to leave Karnali the following morning. I had hoped you would remain, Grey Star, he says. You are a powerful ally and I have great need of strength. Soon, the Wytch-king will seek to destroy our freedom. Without your help, our liberty may prove short-lived. Moreover, you choose a path of doom, heedless of my words of warning.

+

Sado falls silent and an uncomfortable quiet follows. Finally, you rise and bid Sado goodnight, for you intend to leave Karnali the following morning. I had hoped you would remain, Grey Star, he says. You are a powerful ally and I have great need of strength. Soon, the Wytch-king will seek to destroy our freedom. Without your help, our liberty may prove short-lived. Moreover, you choose a path of doom, heedless of my words of warning.

Fear not, Sado of the Long Knife, you reply. If l achieve my goal, there will be freedom for all ensnared by the cruel grasp of the Wytch-king. I do not intend to fail.

You leave the chamber, and close the door behind you. Despite your courageous words, a creeping uncertainty is stirring in your heart. Hmph! snorts Urik. Him brave man&ellips; but have small mind. He places a finger to his nose. Him see only this far. Young Wizard learn quickly&ellips; carry blessing of wise Shianti. You will not fail. You pray that the old Kundi man is right.

You rise the following morning and prepare to leave. Your sleep has restored to you 1 ENDURANCE point and 1 WILLPOWER point. Sado enters your chamber to bid you farewell. I have come to apologize for my harsh words last night, he says. It is not for me to question the way of Wizards. I am but a simple soldier. I have brought gifts by way of recompense. He lays before you the following items:

@@ -2123,7 +2201,13 @@ Initial revision
  • 2 Potions of Laumspur (swallowing one potion restores 4 ENDURANCE points)
  • Coil of Rope
    • - + + + Paul Bonner + + + +

    You may take any or all of these items. Remember to make the necessary adjustments to your Action Chart.

    Turn to 75.     @@ -2258,8 +2342,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The Deathgaunts come no further but remain outside the reach of the spell whispering - - + +

    Grey Star, says Samu in a hushed tone. They have not departed. We cannot remain here forever.

    They can, comments Urik.

    @@ -2454,6 +2538,13 @@ Initial revision

    Heedless of the danger to yourself, you turn and fire at the Shadakine as they tramp through the marsh grass. A bolt of force rips into the nearest Shadakine as he fumbles to reload his weapon and he falls to the ground in a blinding sheet of magical flame. Your attack has cost you only 1 WILLPOWER point. You are amazed at the effect of your attack at such little cost. You conclude that your powers must have increased greatly since last you used your Staff in combat.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + +

    A second Shadakine warrior confronts you, his crossbow levelled at your chest. Suddenly, before you are able to attack, Urik produces a weapon of his own. It is a small boomerang, its edges lined with a row of razor-sharp teeth. With great skill and accuracy he hurls the boomerang at the Shadakine, inflicting a fatal neck wound. Urik runs forward and retrieves his weapon from the Shadakine's neck.

    An enemy swordsman bursts out of his hiding place among the foliage and charges towards you, his scimitar whirling above his head.

    Shadakine Warrior1825 @@ -2653,8 +2744,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner Samu, lost in a berserk fury, battles wit the Scree Wyrm - - + +

    Suddenly, a loud cry makes you start. It is Hugi&emdash;he is struggling in the bony coils of another Scree Wyrm. You dare not attack the creature with a blast from your Staff for fear of hitting the struggling thief.

    If you decide to engage the creature in close combat, turn to 206. @@ -2724,6 +2815,13 @@ Initial revision

    You aim a bolt of energy from your Staff at the nearest crossbowman and fire. A streak of white-hot fire slices through the air, exploding into a massive wall of flame that engulfs the howling Shadakine warrior. The man is completely incinerated and all that remains is a smoking crater in the ground. The Ooslo gives a cry of distress, soaring up into the air at high speed. Below, the Shadakine break and scatter in all directions, plunging into the tall marsh reeds that surround them.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + +

    The effect of your attack leaves you quite amazed. Your powers are greatly increased since last you used them. At the cost of only 2 WILLPOWER points (remember to deduct these from your current WILLPOWER points total), you have delivered an attack that, previously, would have drained a great deal more.

    You are now high in the air and the Shadakine have all moved out of sight. You begin to wonder, however, exactly how to control your feathered mount. Pick a number from the Random Number Table.

    If the number you have picked is 5 or lower, turn to 15. @@ -2755,6 +2853,13 @@ Initial revision

    You are wrenched towards the very edge of the falling bridge. Helplessly, Samu dangles at the end of the Rope, looking at the fast-moving waters of the Belzar. I&ellips; I can't hold it, you shout in a strained voice to Urik and Hugi. They start forward, but as they step on to the bridge, bricks and stones fail into the river at an alarming rate. Stop! you scream, or we're all doomed!

    Before anyone can act; the strain on the Rope is suddenly released and you fall backwards. Samu, seeing your plight, has cut the Rope with his sword, allowing himself to fall into the running water. Horrified, you watch as Samu struggles against the current. Then he is gone; there is no trace. Grey Star! Urik shouts. Come away&ellips; the bridge! Eyes blurred with tears, you stagger away from the bridge. Too numb to speak, the three of you walk towards the gate of the Forbidden City.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + + Turn to 124.     @@ -2846,6 +2951,13 @@ Initial revision

    It is the last day of your tortuous journey. You are roused by the cries of the Shadakine and, a few minutes later, you are dumped on the ground by the slave bearers. Beware, the fighters of the Freedom League! You see little of the battle that ensues. You glimpse many soldiers with red veils over their faces and the fall of the cruel Shadakine captain.

    Finally, the battle ceases and you and Urik are freed from your bonds by the red-veiled soldiers. My thanks, you say, as your Staff and Backpack are returned to you.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + +

    You are lucky, friend, says one of the soldiers. We are only scouts, clearing the way for tomorrow's attack upon a Shadakine slave train. You are given food and enjoy a comfortable sleep that restores to you 2 ENDURANCE points and 1 WILLPOWER point.

    Turn to 275.     @@ -2934,6 +3046,13 @@ Initial revision

    The creature floats across the river. Within the shimmering tatters of its grey robe, you perceive the dim outline of a tormented and eyeless face. It is a Deathgaunt, an undead spirit raised by Shasarak, the Wytch-king, to roam the world of the living.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + + Turn to 169.     @@ -2996,7 +3115,7 @@ Initial revision

    Before going to sleep that night, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 ENDURANCE points. The following morning you continue your journey. Hugi has made no attempt to escape, but he keeps very quiet, especially when Samu is around.

    -

    As the miles pass by, the mountains of Morn loom larger in the distance, aloof and forbidding. The land is becoming sparse of vegetation as you approach the region known as the dead lands.

    +

    As the miles pass by, the Mountains of Morn loom larger in the distance, aloof and forbidding. The land is becoming sparse of vegetation as you approach the region known as the dead lands.

    If you have no more food in your Backpack and want to gather supplies before going any further, turn to 32. If you have enough food to complete your quest, turn to 195.     @@ -3051,8 +3170,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner A flash of gleaming white light leaps from your staff, tearing open the darkness of the night - - + + If your current WILLPOWER total is 15 or higher, turn to 48. If your current WILLPOWER total is 12&endash;14, turn to 189. @@ -3085,6 +3204,13 @@ Initial revision

    You tell Sado of your plan and he nods his approval. You leave the large cavern and ascend into the city. Standing on a city wall, you place the Pipes to your lips and blow. The sound is very high-pitched and you can hear nothing but Urik places his hands to his ears. An hour later, you see some movement on the edge of the swamp: the Chaksu have answered your call just as you had hoped. Quickly, you leave the city wall and tell Sado to proceed with the rest of his plan&emdash;to attack the Shadakine garrison housed in a fortress in the heart of the city.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + +

    Disguised as ordinary citizens, you, Urik and Sado lie in wait on a street that borders the granite fortress of the Shadakine. As the first of the Chaksu smashes down the east gate of the city, the alarm is raised and a host of Shadakine warriors pours out of the fortress to meet the peril.

    Turn to 207.     @@ -3095,6 +3221,13 @@ Initial revision

    You drop your Shield of Sorcery and fire. At the cost of 2 WILLPOWER points, you hurl a bolt of force in the direction of the movement. A bright plume of flame erupts among the marsh reeds and a terrible scream breaks the heavy silence of the swamp. A Shadakine warrior staggers to his feet, a ball of raging fire. Wreathed in flames, he stumbles through the foliage, clawing desperately at his body before plunging into the lake to extinguish the fire. As he hits the water, the two Eijalfish dart towards him.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + +

    We go? asks Urik, half-rising to his feet.

    If you wish to use this chance to swim away, turn to 74. If you would prefer to recreate your Shield of Sorcery instead, turn to 152. @@ -3121,8 +3254,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner A young Chaksu, a much sought after beast - - + +

    Chaksu are capable of a primitive form of mind speech and you can clearly sense its distress. As Urik moves to tend its wound, the Shadakine break from cover and come running straight at you. It was these same Shadakine that injured the young Chaksu, leaving it for dead when they sighted you and Urik.

    If you wish to make a stand in this clearing and protect the Chaksu from further harm, turn to 11. @@ -3358,8 +3491,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner Two large Chaksu burst out of the undergrowth, roaring with fury in search of their lost offspring - - + +

    When no Shadakine remain, the Chaksu turn and bow low before the mother sweeps her baby into her arms. Although they do not speak, their thanks echo in your mind. They give you a small set of wooden pipes. Should you need help, you have only to blow the pipes and they will come to your aid. Gratefully, you accept the Chaksu Pipes and place this Special Item in a pocket in your robe. (Remember to mark it on your Action Chart.) Then, the Chaksu are gone, trampling the thick foliage as if it were matchwood.

    &thinspace;Great in might is the power of kindness, says Urik, quoting from The Way of the Shianti.

    @@ -3469,6 +3602,13 @@ Initial revision

    The creature floats towards you across the Belzar River, its tattered robe shimmering with a silvery light. You can see the dim outline of an eyeless face locked in torment.

    You send your thoughts racing out to the Elemental plane in a desperate plea for help but the Elementals do not answer your plea, for this is a Deathgaunt, one of the undead raised by the Wytch-king Shasarak, and against it the Elemental powers cannot prevail. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 2 WILLPOWER points.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + + Turn to 169.     @@ -3486,8 +3626,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner You make out the awkward shape of an Ooslo bird, a strange creature - - + +

    As the bird draws nearer, Urik takes up his pipe once more and plays. Eventually, the bird settles on a nearby branch, craning its neck and twisting its head, an expression of rapt fascination in its big, saucer-like eyes. Urik ties the other end of vine into a lasso. He stops playing and, with amazing accuracy, throws the lasso over the Ooslo's head. As the loop of the vine falls and tightens around the bird's neck, it gives a squawk of alarm. Only now does the nature of Urik's plan to cover many miles in just one day dawn on you.

    Suddenly, you are dragged up into the air by the Ooslo bird. Urik gives an excited whoop of delight, leaping into the air and grabbing at your legs, dangling there as the bird flies higher. What do we do now? you shout, swinging wildly in the air, the old Kundi man clinging to your legs and grinning maniacally.

    @@ -3505,6 +3645,13 @@ Initial revision

    Before you are able to fire your Wizard's Staff, you must drop your Shield of Sorcery. Taking careful aim, you hurl the might of your Staff at the Eijalfish. Immediately, a sheet of flame blankets the water of the lake, throwing the charred body of the Eijalfish into the air atop a great waterspout. Radiant droplets of fire and water are flung in all directions across the boiling lake. The use of your Staff has cost you 2 WILLPOWER points. Time to go? asks Urik.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + + If you wish to swim away, turn to 74. If you prefer to recall your Shield of Sorcery, turn to 263.     @@ -3534,6 +3681,13 @@ Initial revision

    Fire! you shout in the language of the Elementals. Suddenly the lake erupts into one gigantic fireball that engulfs both you and Urik in searing flame.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + +

    Your life and your mission have come to a fatal end here.

     @@ -3547,6 +3701,13 @@ Initial revision

    Staff raised above your head, you wait for your chance to strike. Samu's defence against the Scree Wyrm is a dizzying blur of sword strokes. The Wyrm's attack weakens and, as it does, you strike out with the might of your Staff. A bolt of power shudders through the fearful creature as its body tenses before flopping lifelessly to the ground. Disdainfully, Samu gives the carcass a kick and the creature disappears through one of the pot-holes that litter the desolate plain.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + + Turn to 85.     @@ -3688,8 +3849,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner Suddenly, the charge is sounded and the fighters of the Freedom Guild fall upon the slave train - - + +

    The Shadakine guards fall into defensive positions along the road, but the stealth of the ambush outmanoeuvres them and they have no time to deploy effectively. Shall we? you ask Urik. He grins broadly and gives vent to a bellowing yell before shambling out of the brush towards the fray as fast as his old bones will allow. You follow behind.

    Turn to 144. @@ -3941,8 +4102,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner Through a dark haze the ghastly figure of Shasarak appears - - + +

    With a gesture of his ruined hand, he shows you the vision of a young girl, sobbing, surrounded by a pool of darkness. With a dull ache in your heart you recognize the girl. It is Tanith, the Wytch girl who helped you escape from a Shadakine prison in the Port of Suhn and finally leapt to her death to save you. Now, trapped upon another plane, she weeps alone, her eyes wild with fear. Tanith! you call into the void of your dream.

    Shasarak laughs, savagely. She cannot hear you, Wizard. No one can hear her now. She is mine to torment as and when I wish. And my imagination knows no limit in the matter of torment&emdash;in that field I rule supreme. The Wytch-king begins to laugh with malicious glee, relishing Tanith's plight and your misery at witnessing it. Turn aside, Grey Star, or she is lost. With the howl of Shasarak's mocking laughter ringing in your ears, you wake with a start. You have lost 1 ENDURANCE point and 1 WILLPOWER point during the night.

    @@ -4054,8 +4215,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner Samu turns and slashes at the wretches who try to drag him from the door - - + +

    He pulls each of you out in turn, and stops to deliver a kick at two wretches blocking a doorway that leads from the crypt. This way, he says, indicating a narrow passage that leads upwards. These creatures seem reluctant to travel this passage. They will not follow, I think.

    You run down the passage as fast as you can with Samu protecting the rear. At the end of the passage is a heavy door. Urik swings it open and you all dash through.

    @@ -4094,8 +4255,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The Kleasá emits a great howling yell of triumph - - + +

    As the Kleasá soars up into the air, its shape extended like a great bat's wing, the Shadow Gate truly appears before you: a great, grey arch, a window to other worlds filled with formless mists and nightmare glimpses. Tanith stands before you on the other side of the threshold and, without hesitation, you step through.

    Your further journeys in the Daziarn plane will be chronicled in book three of the Grey Star series, entitled

    @@ -4284,7 +4445,7 @@ Initial revision

    (60) Replaced purpose? with purpose!.

    (62) Replaced cry &lsquot;Samu!&rsquot; with cry: &lsquot;Samu!&rsquot;.

    (67) Replaced continue you with continue, you.

    -

    (72) Replaced Wizard's staff with Wizard's Staff.

    +

    (72) Replaced Wizard's staff with Wizard's Staff. Replaced Black Mountains of Morn with black Mountains of Morn.

    (76) Replaced of table with of the table.

    (78) Replaced below but with below, but.

    (83) Replaced immobile as with immobile, as.

    @@ -4332,6 +4493,7 @@ Initial revision

    (211) Replaced Masbalé with Masbaté. Replaced Lisson with Lissan.

    (212) Replaced all occurrences of luneday with Luneday.

    (213) Replaced menacingly as with menacingly, as.

    +

    (< idref="sect214">214) Replaced mountains of Morn with Mountains of Morn.

    (215) Added or do not wish to use it, in the second choice.

    (216) Replaced six with eight. Replaced 257 with 257.. Replaced all occurrences of Items with items.

    (217) Replaced the dead lands with &lsquot;the dead lands&rsquot;.

    @@ -4446,6 +4608,16 @@ Initial revision diff --git a/xml/03btng.xml b/xml/03btng.xml index f5c40f1..345d9ff 100755 --- a/xml/03btng.xml +++ b/xml/03btng.xml @@ -20,8 +20,8 @@ $Id$ $Log$ -Revision 1.3 2005/04/01 22:31:03 jonathan.blake -Illustration code added by jffdougan - still needs dimensions +Revision 1.4 2005/04/21 15:53:05 jonathan.blake +jffdougan said: Added illustrations, implemented minor approved fixes Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake Removed link to old staff email address. @@ -94,6 +94,19 @@ Checkin of Jeff Dougan's work. Revision 1.1 2002/10/21 21:36:12 jblake Initial revision +--> + @@ -162,6 +175,8 @@ Initial revision
    Transcription
    Mike David
    +
    Illustration Transcription
    +
    Jonathan Blake
    Simon Osborne
    XML
    Jonathan Blake
    Jeff Dougan
    Thomas Wolmer
    Action Charts
    @@ -692,8 +707,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner Oz-na-Mun is sitting before his shack, staring at a mass of red clay - - + +

    You knew I was coming? you reply, surprised.

    He has been here; your shadow brother, your dark self. There was a girl with him also.

    @@ -722,6 +737,13 @@ Initial revision

    You perceive that the realm you have entered harbours many illusions: the waters of a blue ocean, rippling with foam-crested waves, roll above your head where the sky should be; below, green hills undulate between mountains balanced upon their peaks; a huge fist rises up, poised to smash down upon you but you pass through it as if it were a phantom. All around is the sound of crazed laughter. A man who believed in the reality of these illusions would stand at the threshold of madness. With the strength of your will you challenge the illusions that surround you; instantly the nightmare vision disappears.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + + Turn to 187.     @@ -926,6 +948,13 @@ Initial revision

    Above your head, where the sky should be, the blue waters of an ocean roll, rippling with foam-crested waves. Below, green hills and fields shift and move like water. The Ethetron rocks violently. You are no longer able to choose between up and down, left or right. Mountains stand upon their peaks; towns and cities drift past; night becomes day, and day becomes night in quick succession; a huge fist rears up, poised to strike, then passes through you like a phantom. All around you is the sound of crazed laughter.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + + If your current WILLPOWER score is 12 or more, turn to 67. If your WILLPOWER score is less than 12, turn to 104.     @@ -1062,8 +1091,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The Singing City with its delicate spires and splendid ivory towers - - + +

    You pass through the arched gateway of the city and walk along a long avenue of crystal paving stones.

    Turn to 238. @@ -1089,8 +1118,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner You and Tanith find yourselves in a circular chamber filled with milky-white light - - + + Turn to 275. @@ -1126,8 +1155,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The Crystal Tower gleams faintly with a strange light - - + + Turn to 167. @@ -1194,8 +1223,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The iron-shod door is locked and five keys are hanging by it - - + + If you wish to use the Serpent Key, turn to 240. If you wish to use the Eagle Key, turn to 227. @@ -1250,8 +1279,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The horizon of white light splits the darkness in two - - + + If you wish to try to slow your pace, turn to 74. If you wish to continue at the same speed, turn to 310. @@ -1330,6 +1359,13 @@ Initial revision

    I seek a girl; her name is Tanith, you cry, and one who is named Oz-na-Mun.

    So be it! replies the Chaos-master. The bargain is struck. These things you shall have and then you must return to me and make payment.

    Before you can ask the nature of this payment, you find yourself standing upon firm ground, looking out across a vast quarry of red soil. Your Ethetron lies close at hand. On the other side of the quarry you can see smoke rising from a rough wooden shack. You push the nightmare visions from your brain and head towards the shack.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + + Turn to 127. @@ -1424,8 +1460,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The creatures have oily, purple-black skins with slickly matted feathers - - + + If you wish to attack one of the Chaos-birds at long range with your Wizard's Staff, turn to 64. If you wish to wait for the Chaos-birds to draw nearer, turn to 108. @@ -1447,6 +1483,13 @@ Initial revision

    As you regain control of the flying machine you begin to slow down. You make a rather bumpy landing in a field but both you and your craft survive it unharmed. You take out the Gyronome and its shrill call confirms that you are now in the Realm of the Singing City. Away to your left and in the distance the city glints beneath the warm sunlight. Suddenly you notice several figures heading in your direction, though they are still far off.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + + If you wish to hide yourself and the Ethetron, turn to 85. If you wish to wait where you are, turn to 214.     @@ -1621,8 +1664,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The Chaos-master continually melts into new and hideous guises - - + +

    Welcome to the Master's court! he bellows. Allow me to introduce my guests.

    Slowly a dark-robed figure walks into the hall. He wears a hood and carries a black staff. Following immediately behind is Tanith. She gives you a brave smile.

    @@ -1758,8 +1801,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner Allow me to introduce Crabkey, one of our most ingenious inventors - - + +

    You recognize the shabby man who turns to greet you; he was the man who sat in the armchair when you first entered the chamber of the Academicians. In the strange lurid glow of the laboratory his shadowed, bulging eyes make him appear even more sinister than before. We meet again, you say uncomfortably.

    Crabkey stares at you without speaking. Spittlethrift breaks the silence: Mr Crabkey is the inventor of the machine that will enable you to journey to the Realm of the Singing City, aren't you, Crabkey, old chap? Crabkey continues to stare at you insolently. With a slow blink of his huge eyes, he makes an unintelligible sound in the back of his throat and nods.

    @@ -1904,8 +1947,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The Ethetron's tail is like a lizard's, its sails like bats' wings - - + +

    It is the raw stuff of the Daziarn, unformed power for the craft, explains Crabkey. Without it, the craft would fall from the sky. To steer, he continues, you must operate this lever&emdash;pull to climb, push to dive, left and right as normal. To draw more power from the glass dome you must press this metal bar at your feet; to slow down, release it. If you apply no pressure, the craft will remain where it is; if you push the lever to the left or right without power, the craft will spin on its axis. Beware, these controls are very sensitive. You need apply very little pressure to make the craft change its course.

    When Crabkey is satisfied that you understand the controls, he introduces you to another Academician, Slypate, who hands you a shining sphere of red and yellow metal. This is a Gyronome. There is no north, east, west or south in the plane of the Daziarn, nor is there time as you perceive it, says Slypate. The only way of finding the Singing City is with the aid of this device. When you draw it out, it will emit a sound if you are heading for the Singing City. The louder the note, the surer your course. To return to the Crystal Tower, the Gyronome must be absolutely silent. It is very accurate: I invented it myself, he says with pride. You take the Special Item and place it in your pocket. (Remember to mark the Gyronome on your Action Chart.)

    @@ -1992,8 +2035,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The hunched figure is dressed in grey rags and the flesh of his hands and face is almost transparent - - + +

    No peace. No peace, he mutters to himself. So many interruptions&ellips; the passage of strangers, asking directions and breaking the silence. He gazes at you with a sad but steady stare. I am Drear, wanderer between worlds, he says, as if reciting a litany. Sailor upon pointless seas, traveller of timeless lands, born of a world grown old and tired. You are in the Neverness, my children, the unformed and unclaimed void of the Daziarn, where no one yet resides.

    What of yonder building? you ask.

    @@ -2194,8 +2237,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner You soon locate the cavern in the side of the Moaning Mountain - - + + Turn to 300. @@ -2438,8 +2481,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner Everyone stares at a figure dancing maniacally on the roof of the house - - + + If you wish to attack the Jahksa at long range, turn to 154. If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it, turn to 169. @@ -2481,6 +2524,13 @@ Initial revision

    Yes, it's really me, you reply, with a warm smile.

    I thought&ellips; she says with a dry sob. It was in my mind&ellips; the Black Wizard, he had your face. He took me from the Crystal Tower and brought me here. By the time I realized it wasn't you, the Chaos-master had asked me what gift I desired. I asked for you, Grey Star, and the Chaos-master told me that the Black Wizard was you. Then my mind was full of fear and loathing. I&emdash;

    You don't have to explain. It's all right. I understand.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + +

    Outside, a strange, yet familiar voice sends a chill down your spine. How touching; how noble. Such understanding, it sneers. You rush outside to see a hooded figure dressed all in black. Slowly, deliberately, the hood is pulled aside to reveal your own face staring back at you. Greetings, brother, says your voice. We meet at last.

    Turn to 291. @@ -2600,8 +2650,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner Mountains stand on their peaks and cities float haphazardly in the air - - + + If you have the Magical Power of Enchantment, turn to 156.

    If you do not have this Magical Power, pick a number from the Random Number Table and add it to your WILLPOWER score.

    @@ -2660,6 +2710,13 @@ Initial revision

    Get out of my mind! she screams, desperation and pain in her voice. Quickly you extinguish the glow of the Gem for fear of damaging her mind. Outside, you hear a voice that sends an icy chill coursing through your body.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + +

    How sad. Tragic. Such a waste of energy on a girl who despises you. You rush out of the room to see a hooded figure dressed in black. Slowly the hood is pulled away to reveal your own face looking back at you. Greetings brother,' sneers a voice identical to your own. 'We meet at last.

    Turn to 291.     @@ -2693,6 +2750,13 @@ Initial revision

    To the delighted cheers of the Elessin, the statue of the Screaming God is carried from the palace and away from the Singing City. It is taken to the grove of trees where your flying machine is hidden and loaded aboard. Many thanks, Grey Star, says the Guardian. Today you give us our freedom. Is there some way we can repay you?

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + +

    I seek the Moonstone of the Shianti, you say. Long ago they hid it somewhere on the plane of the Daziarn, our name for the realms gathered here. Can you tell me exactly where it is hidden?

    The Elessi shakes his head. I have never heard of such a thing but there is one who surely might. In the Realm of Paradox lives one called Oz-na-Mun, he of the mighty hand. He is wise and knowledgeable; perhaps he will know.

    How may I find this Realm of Paradox? My only guide is this. You show the Guardian the Gyronome. And it can only guide me between here and the Neverness.

    @@ -3032,6 +3096,13 @@ Initial revision

    You ignore the man, who soon disappears from view. You continue across the cloud plane towards the building and soon you can make out the shape of a tall tower, gleaming faintly with a strange, brittle light. The tower appears to be constructed from great shards of black crystal, and its architecture possess an alien quality that is both puzzling and intriguing.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + + Turn to 167.     @@ -3067,8 +3138,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The Elessin have soft, flute-like voices and wear short togas - - + + If you wish to go with the Elessin, turn to 45. If you wish to attack them with your Wizard's Staff, turn to 6. @@ -3086,8 +3157,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner Seven eyeless heads on long, slender necks wave before you - - + + If you wish to attack the creature with your Staff, turn to 194. If you wish to manoeuvre between the long-necked monsters, turn to 171. @@ -3105,8 +3176,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner Everywhere is a growing, verdant splendour - - + + If you have the Magical Power of Alchemy, turn to 177. If you do not have this Magical Power, turn to 293. @@ -3239,6 +3310,13 @@ Initial revision

    You come to a main road that crosses your path into the valley. It leads into a village, which you can see in the distance, hugging a small wood of squat trees. Strangely, there is a lot of smoke rising from the village.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + + Turn to 201.     @@ -3384,8 +3462,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner In the palace of the Screaming God there is a grotesque but life-like statue of a child - - + + If you wish to attack the Guardian of the Threnogem, turn to 322. If you wish to snatch the Threnogem from the statue's mouth and try to break out of the Palace of the Screaming God, turn to 71. @@ -3476,6 +3554,13 @@ Initial revision

    You are soaring through a starlit sky, myriad tiny pinpoints of light shining above. Tanith clutches your arm and points below at a swirling gaseous incandescence, lit by sporadic bursts of violet lightning. Suddenly, a huge, webbed claw as tall as a house, with green, shining skin rises up out of the mists.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + +

    Add together your COMBAT SKILL and current WILLPOWER points.

    If the total is 15 or more, turn to 215. If the total is less than 15, turn to 233. @@ -3518,8 +3603,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner Spittlethrift claps his pudgy hands together and smiles happily - - + +

    Who are you? you ask, still breathless.

    I am Spittlethrift, scholar, professor and master of the Crystal Tower. Yes, yes&ellips; a tower of learning, a veritable pillar of wisdom and knowledge, ha, ha, indeed! He takes a pair of wire-framed spectacles and places them on the end of his smudge of a nose. You are not alone, I see. He squints at Tanith. Most pleasing, enchanting&ellips; yes, yes, well done! You have passed the test; you will suffice. He turns towards the door and flutters his hands in an agitated manner. Come now, you must meet the rest of us. Oh yes, delightful, engaging, so wonderfully entertaining!

    @@ -3598,6 +3683,13 @@ Initial revision

    Looking for me? asks a contemptuous voice. You look up and see a hooded figure dressed in black, carrying a long, black staff. Slowly the hood is pulled away to reveal your own face staring back at you. Greetings, brother, your own voice laughs, coldly. We meet at last.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + + Turn to 291.     @@ -3699,6 +3791,13 @@ Initial revision

    You break the trance and breathe out through clenched teeth. Tanith is confused. She tries to make sense of the visions that you have placed in her mind and the magical compulsion that forces her to fear you. Outside, you hear a voice that sends an icy chill through your body.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + +

    How sad. Tragic. Such a waste of energy on a girl who despises you. You rush out of the room to see a hooded figure dressed entirely in black and carrying a long, black staff. Slowly, deliberately; the hood is pulled away to reveal your own face looking back at you. Greetings, brother, sneers a voice identical to your own. We meet at last, it laughs, mockingly.

    Turn to 291.     @@ -3799,6 +3898,13 @@ Initial revision

    I will take what is mine, he says. He reaches out to take the Moonstone, a greedy gleam in his eyes. You have seconds in which to act.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + + If you wish to attack the Jahksa, turn to 243. If not, turn to 218.     @@ -3812,6 +3918,13 @@ Initial revision

    It's me, you whisper.

    Grey Star, she sobs. I thought&ellips; it was in my mind&ellips; the Black Wizard, he had your face. He took me from the Crystal Tower and brought me here. The Chaos-master asked me what gift I desired and I asked for you, Grey Star. Then the Chaos-master told me that the Black Wizard was you and then my mind was full of hate and loathing. I&ellips;

    You don't have to explain; it's all right, I understand, you say. From outside the shack, a sneering voice sends an unnatural chill through your body.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + +

    How touching; how nice. Such understanding. The evil voice laughs, mockingly. You run outside to see a hooded figure in a black robe carrying a black staff. Slowly, deliberately, the hood is pulled aside to reveal your own face; your own eyes stare back at you as if you were looking into a mirror. Greetings, brother, says your voice, with a bitter laugh. We meet at last.

    Turn to 291.     @@ -4167,8 +4280,8 @@ Initial revision Paul Bonner The Vale people take you to the Silver Lake which lies high in the mountains - - + +

    You do exactly as they say and when you reach the surface you discover no water at all; merely the passing touch of something as light as gossamer.

    Turn to 247. @@ -4653,6 +4766,13 @@ Initial revision

    Triumphantly, the Jahksa deals a killing blow. You feel a searing pain tear through your body, but miraculously you are not slain. The Moonstone, instrument of judgement and truth, has made a reality of Shasarak's mockery of you. In killing you the Jahksa has killed itself. With a howl, the Jahksa dissolves into black shadows and returns to the spirit realm from whence it came.

    + + + Paul Bonner + + + +

    With a thrill of anticipation, you take up the Moonstone. It flares, as if in recognition, at the touch of your hand. It glows with a warm, familiar feeling as it nestles in the palm of your hand. Tanith's eyes are wild and shining with triumph. You have fulfilled your pledge and completed the quest&ellips; almost. Armed with the might of the Moonstone, you now possess the only known power that could throw down the evil Wytch-king, Shasarak. But that is another story, and the day is yet to come.

    The final conflict in your fight against the Shadakine Empire is concluded in Book 4 of the Grey Star saga, entitled:

    War of the Wizards

    @@ -5023,6 +5143,16 @@ Initial revision -- 2.34.1