<meta><title>1</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>After a restless night spent contemplating the mission you have vowed to complete, you rise shortly before dawn and meet with Lord Zinair in the courtyard of the stables that adjoin the Dessi consulate. A horse-drawn carriage is waiting to take you both to the harbour where a sleek Suhnese clipper called <cite>The Azaktana</cite> is ready to set sail. This magnificent ship is one of the fastest vessels ever to have plied the southern seas, and Lord Zinair has commissioned it for your voyage to Sheasu. He and you will be the only passengers aboard.</p>
+ <p>After a restless night spent contemplating the mission you have vowed to complete, you rise shortly before dawn and meet with Lord Zinair in the courtyard of the stables that adjoin the Dessian consulate. A horse-drawn carriage is waiting to take you both to the harbour where a sleek Suhnese clipper called <cite>The Azaktana</cite> is ready to set sail. This magnificent ship is one of the fastest vessels ever to have plied the southern seas, and Lord Zinair has commissioned it for your voyage to Sheasu. He and you will be the only passengers aboard.</p>
<p><cite>The Azaktana</cite> is stocked with sufficient fresh water and provisions to enable her to complete the voyage without unnecessary delays. The weather is Zinair<ch.apos/>s main concern for the southern seas are notorious for the occurrence of sudden storms and squalls. Yet, despite his fears, the weather proves to be uncommonly mild. Aided by a strong easterly trade wind, the long voyage across the Mythenian and Vaduz seas is completed in record time.</p>
<p>Shortly after sunset on the twentieth day of your voyage, the twinkling harbour lights of Mydnight are sighted by the lookout. The Captain shouts an order and hurriedly his crew lower the sails to allow <cite>The Azaktana</cite> to glide silently into the harbour of Sheasu<ch.apos/>s solitary port. As the crewmen secure the ship to the quayside, the scudding clouds part and the decks are bathed by the ashen light of a full moon.</p>
<p><quote>In thirty days<ch.apos/> time the moon will be full once more,</quote> says Lord Zinair, thoughtfully. <quote>It will then be the moon of Harvestmas. I pray that you and Prince Karvas shall be in Seroa to see that.</quote></p>
<p>The parting clouds have also revealed a smaller globe of light in the night sky, above the port<ch.apos/>s eastern quarter. At first you assume it to be just a star, but when you magnify your vision you see it is the stern lantern of a flying ship which is hovering 30 metres above the rooftops.</p>
- <p><quote>See, there, my lord,</quote> you say, and point to the orb of light. <quote>Ah, yes,</quote> replies Zinair, smiling. <quote>It would appear that Wizard Acraban has arrived before us.</quote></p>
+ <p><quote>See, there, my lord,</quote> you say, and point to the orb of light.</p>
+ <p><quote>Ah, yes,</quote> replies Zinair, smiling. <quote>It would appear that Wizard Acraban has arrived before us.</quote></p>
<p>Lord Zinair<ch.apos/>s pronouncement is proved to be correct when a young man, attired in the blue and silver robes of a Brotherhood magician, comes striding along the quayside towards your ship. He has a neatly trimmed beard and long, flowing ginger hair, and his chiselled features are distinctly Sommlending.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you have ever visited the city of Caeno (in a previous Lone Wolf New Order Adventure) <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
+ <choice idref="sect165">If you have ever visited the city of Caeno (in a previous <cite>Lone Wolf</cite> New Order Adventure), <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect299">If you have never visited the city of Caeno, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<data>
<p>You return to the jetty and show your tickets to the ticket seller. He grunts his approval and waves you aboard the riverboat. The number of your berth is written on your ticket, and you discover that you are both sharing cabin number 12 which is located at the stern. You are pleased to discover that it is one of the better cabins aboard. It has a cupboard stocked with food and wine, a washing bowl and a jug of water, and twin bunk beds with mattresses and feather pillows.</p>
<p>After a short while you hear the clang of the riverboat<ch.apos/>s bell. It is a signal that the boat is about to set off for Seroa in fifteen minutes<ch.apos/> time and a last call for passengers who are still in Xaia. Through the porthole of your cabin you can see the jetty and a queue of people boarding the boat. Fortunately, you do not see any Cavalians among them.</p>
- <p>Once everyone is aboard, the gangplank is raised and the riverboat<ch.apos/>s waterwheel begins to turn. As the boat gets under way, you lock the cabin door and settle down to a good night<ch.apos/>s sleep.</p>
+ <p>Once everyone is aboard, the gangplank is raised and the riverboat<ch.apos/>s waterwheel begins to turn. As the boat gets underway, you lock the cabin door and settle down to a good night<ch.apos/>s sleep.</p>
<choice idref="sect46">To continue, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<data>
<p>You are shaken by the sudden impact of hitting the water, but you swiftly muster your senses and fight to stay astride your horse. Prince Karvas and his mount come crashing down nearby and, in a tangle of flailing limbs, you are all swept away by the river<ch.apos/>s irresistible current.</p>
<p>You are sped along by the rushing water for more than five kilometres before you reach a stretch of shallows at a bend in the river. Here you are able to regain control of your frightened horses and coax them towards the bank. Bruised and bedraggled, you stagger out of the water and collapse on the muddy shore, gasping for breath.</p>
- <p>When you fully recover, you find that you have lost 1 Weapon and 1 Backpack Item during your ordeal in the river (Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a><ch.emdash/>you may choose which weapon and Backpack Item to erase.)</p>
+ <p>When you fully recover, you find that you have lost 1 Weapon and 1 Backpack Item during your ordeal in the river
. (Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a><ch.emdash/>you may choose which weapon and Backpack Item to erase.)</p>
<choice idref="sect80">To leave the river and return to the trail, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<li>Jewelled Knife</li>
<li>Silver Signet Ring</li>
</ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of the above, record them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as Backpack Items (Ren is local currency which you may carry in your Belt Pouch.)</p>
+ <p>If you wish to keep any of the above, record them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as Backpack Items. (Ren is local currency which you may carry in your Belt Pouch.)</p>
<p>On your return to the warehouse, Prince Karvas is delighted to hear that there are stables in Bakhasa and he insists that you set off for them at once. He is leading the way out of the ruins when suddenly the tower bell begins to toll once more. Moments later, the temple doors swing open and the procession of black-clad figures file out into the street. Instinctively you take hold of Karvas by the arm and pull him back into the ruins to avoid being seen by the emerging soldiers. As they pass by, you peer around the edge of the crumbling warehouse doorway to watch them. A strange feeling of unease makes the skin on the back of your neck prickle, and immediately you sense that all is not what it seems. When you magnify your vision to take a closer look at the passing figures, you gasp with shock at what you see.</p>
<choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>7</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>The searing flash of the lightning strike singes the skin on your face and hands (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), and leaves you blinded for a few moments. When your vision returns, you muster all of your Kai senses and focus them on the narrow strip of land which separates the fissures. Bolts of searing energy leap out of these chasms and soar past the skyship on either side to explode with thunderous cacophony among the rolling clouds. The crew cower with terror, but you maintain your nerve and let your Kai skills take full control of the wheel. After several nerve-racking miles the fissures eventually taper off and then disappear completely. As the <cite>Starstrider</cite> emerges from the gauntlet of deadly white fire, the crew give a loud cheer in appreciation of your skilful helmsmanship. Gladly you acknowledge their praise, but you keep a grip on the helm for your Kai senses are screaming a warning that the danger is not yet over.</p>
+ <p>The searing flash of the lightning strike singes the skin on your face and hands (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), and leaves you blinded for a few moments. When your vision returns, you muster all of your Kai senses and focus them on the narrow strip of land which separates the fissures. Bolts of searing energy leap out of these chasms and soar past the skyship on either side to explode with thunderous cacophony among the roiling clouds. The crew cower with terror, but you maintain your nerve and let your Kai skills take full control of the wheel. After several nerve-wracking miles the fissures eventually taper off and then disappear completely. As the <cite>Starstrider</cite> emerges from the gauntlet of deadly white fire, the crew give a loud cheer in appreciation of your skilful helmsmanship. Gladly you acknowledge their praise, but you keep a grip on the helm for your Kai senses are screaming a warning that the danger is not yet over.</p>
<p>You are five miles clear of the fissures when the steering becomes dangerously erratic. The <cite>Starstrider</cite> is losing altitude and her deck is beginning to tilt alarmingly to starboard. Soon it becomes almost impossible to stand upright. Acraban appears from below and struggles valiantly across the sloping deck to join you at the helm. The young sorcerer looks gaunt and exhausted, and his ginger hair is matted with grime and sweat. Clearly his efforts to repair the ailing skyship have severely drained his magical energies.</p>
- <p><quote>We have lost one stabilizer and the other is badly damaged,</quote> he says, grimly, <quote>I have done all I can to repair it but I fear it will fail at any moment. Without stabilizers we cannot stay airborne.</quote></p>
+ <p><quote>We have lost one stabilizer and the other is badly damaged,</quote> he says, grimly. <quote>I have done all I can to repair it but I fear it will fail at any moment. Without stabilizers we cannot stay airborne.</quote></p>
<p>Acraban takes the helm and orders his crew to prepare for a crash landing. Some of the young men tie themselves to the ship<ch.apos/>s mast, while others brace themselves against the rails and put their fate in the hands of the Goddess Ishir. Prince Karvas has found refuge in a rope locker which is bolted to the main deck. He lifts the lid and calls for you to join him. There is sufficient space for two inside.</p>
<choice idref="sect79">If you wish to climb into the rope locker alongside Prince Karvas, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect199">If you choose to stay with Acraban at the ship<ch.apos/>s helm, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
<data>
<p>The rock grazes your scalp (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point) and you almost fall from the saddle, but you manage to keep a tight hold of the reins and pull yourself upright.</p>
- <p>The speed an surefootedness of your Bhanarian stallions carry you and Karvas swiftly out of harm<ch.apos/>s way. You soon reach the rubble-strewn gate of the fortress and dismount to lead your horses inside. Within its crumbling walls there stands a keep, a cylindrical structure of time-worn masonry. The upper parts have collapsed leaving huge chunks of broken stone heaped around its base. Where once stood a gate of gleaming bronze now only a blackened hole remains. It provides access to an inner hall and you enter to take shelter from the torrential rain.</p>
- <p>Engravings in the ceiling and walls of this derelict hall tell you that this fortress was once occupied by the Elder Magi. Both you and Karvas are fascinated by the intricate carvings and you decide to split up and explore this hall further. In an alcove at the north side you discover a shrine dedicated to the God Kai. Clumps of wild laumspur are growing around its base and you discover enough here for 3 potions. (Each potion is a Backpack Item. It will restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed after combat.)</p>
+ <p>The speed and surefootedness of your Bhanarian stallions carry you and Karvas swiftly out of harm<ch.apos/>s way. You soon reach the rubble-strewn gate of the fortress and dismount to lead your horses inside. Within its crumbling walls there stands a keep, a cylindrical structure of time-worn masonry. The upper parts have collapsed leaving huge chunks of broken stone heaped around its base. Where once stood a gate of gleaming bronze now only a blackened hole remains. It provides access to an inner hall and you enter to take shelter from the torrential rain.</p>
+ <p>Engravings in the ceiling and walls of this derelict hall tell you that this fortress was once occupied by the Elder Magi. Both you and Karvas are fascinated by the intricate carvings and you decide to split up and explore this hall further. In an alcove at the north side you discover a shrine dedicated to the God Kai. Clumps of wild laumspur are growing around its base and you discover enough here for 3 potions. (Each Potion of Laumspur is a Backpack Item. It will restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed after combat.)</p>
<p>You are examining the shrine more closely when suddenly you hear Karvas scream out in alarm.</p>
<choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<p>The terrible sound of the hunter<ch.apos/>s horn ceases abruptly and you hear them galloping towards you. Their leader is a broad-shouldered man with a ginger beard and long wavy hair. His hair fans out from around the edges of a conical helm that is topped by a pair of polished antlers. He brings his horse to a halt before you and Prince Karvas and he regards your mounts with an appraising eye.</p>
<p><quote>I see you ride Cavalian colts,</quote> he says, and he points to the eagle brands that mark your horses<ch.apos/> hindquarters. You nod in acknowledgement but you do not offer any explanation. The man narrows his blue eyes and strokes his beard thoughtfully.</p>
<p><quote>You do not know who I am, do you?</quote> You shake your head dumbly, hoping that he will take you for a simpleton and return to his deer hunting.</p>
- <p><quote>I am Halx<ch.emdash/>the Inquisitor-Major of Cavalia. Among my many duties is the regulation and taxation of horses, mules and oxen. You both ride Cavalian steeds, yet I do not recall seeing either of you in the city before. I trust your saddle taxes have been paid? Perhaps you would be kind enough to furnish your names and places of lodging so that, upon my return to Cavalia, I am able to confirm that this is so?</quote></p>
+ <p><quote>I am Halx<ch.emdash/>the Inquisitor-Major of Cavalia. Among my many duties is the regulation and taxation of horses, mules, and oxen. You both ride Cavalian steeds, yet I do not recall seeing either of you in the city before. I trust your saddle taxes have been paid? Perhaps you would be kind enough to furnish your names and places of lodging so that, upon my return to Cavalia, I am able to confirm that this is so?</quote></p>
<p>You sense that your continued silence is beginning to irritate the Inquisitor-Major. His followers are also growing impatient.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to say that you are special emmissaries on your way to Seroa to witness the crowning of Baron Sadanzo, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
+ <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to say that you are special emissaries on your way to Seroa to witness the crowning of Baron Sadanzo, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect123">If you wish to say that you are new recruits to the Cavalian Citadel Guard, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<meta><title>10</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>Karvas grabs your hand and pulls you to your feet. The drooling horror utters a chilling cackle and suddenly gathers speed. It has caught the enticing scent of horseflesh drifting on the chill night wind. You unsheathe your Kai weapon and hurriedly move forward to block its approach to the narrow gulley. You must now fight the creature.</p>
+ <p>Karvas grabs your hand and pulls you to your feet. The drooling horror utters a chilling cackle and suddenly gathers speed. It has caught the enticing scent of horseflesh drifting on the chill night wind. You unsheathe your Kai Weapon and hurriedly move forward to block its approach to the narrow gulley. You must now fight the creature.</p>
<combat><enemy>Bavazanur (Winged agarashi<ch.emdash/>wounded)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
<p>This enemy is immune to Mindblast (but not Kai-surge). You may add 5 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight, for Prince Karvas is assisting you battle against this foul creature.</p>
<choice idref="sect129">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
<meta><title>14</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You hold the blacksmith with a piercing stare and quietly recite the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Mind Charm</spell>. As the spell takes hold, you command him mentally to signal to his son that all is well between you. Your magical charm instils a sense of calm well being into the man and he begins to relax and smile. He complies with your command and his son returns to his furnace.</p>
+ <p>You hold the blacksmith with a piercing stare and quietly recite the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Mind Charm</spell>. As the spell takes hold, you command him mentally to signal to his son that all is well between you. Your magical charm instils a sense of calm well being into the man and he begins to relax and smile. He complies with your command and his son returns to his furnace.</p>
<p>You ask the blacksmith if he knows the whereabouts of Prince Karvas of Siyen. He tells you that the prince does not reside in the city. It is said that he lives somewhere on the remote northern coast of Sheasu. He also tells you that Karvas is not alone. Shortly after he came here, almost a decade ago, he was joined by a young woman. They were married by a sea captain in Mydnight harbour, on board the deck of his trading ship, and ever since their wedding day they have rarely been seen again.</p>
<p>You thank the blacksmith for his help and leave the smithy before the effects of the mind charm wear off. On returning to the quayside you set out to explore the tangle of alleyways that make up the city<ch.apos/>s eastern quarter in the hope of discovering more about the prince and his wife. Unfortunately, your efforts garner no new information. As the sun begins to settle on the horizon, you abandon your search and hurry back through the darkening passageways towards the market square.</p>
<choice idref="sect308"><link-text>Turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
<meta><title>16</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You gag and tie the unconscious guard with his belt and tunic, then you hide him in some long grass at the base of the perimeter wall. Hurrying across the field, you soon reach a courtyard located near to the main entrance. This flagstoned yard abuts the entrance gates and is bounded on the other three sides by paddocks, tack rooms and the training fields. There are only two guards on duty here, the others having been called upon to assist the patrols who are out searching the city. They are both asleep at their posts and you have no difficulty tiptoeing past them and entering the paddocks where the horses are stabled.</p>
+ <p>You gag and tie the unconscious guard with his belt and tunic, then you hide him in some long grass at the base of the perimeter wall. Hurrying across the field, you soon reach a courtyard located near to the main entrance. This flagstoned yard abuts the entrance gates and is bounded on the other three sides by paddocks, tack rooms, and the training fields. There are only two guards on duty here, the others having been called upon to assist the patrols that are out searching the city. They are both asleep at their posts and you have no difficulty tiptoeing past them and entering the paddocks where the horses are stabled.</p>
<p>You search the stalls and soon discover two black Bhanarian stallions of magnificent quality and breeding. They will make ideal mounts for you and Prince Karvas. These intelligent animals respond readily to your Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control and they remain calm and composed as you hurriedly fix their saddles and bridles. As you are leading them out into the courtyard, you stop to unbuckle a swordbelt from the belly of a sleeping guard. Prince Karvas is unarmed and you are sure he will appreciate this weapon more than its present owner.</p>
<p>You lead the horses across the courtyard and as you approach the stables<ch.apos/> main doors, you mount one of them and fix the reins of the other to you stirrup. Then you kick open one of the double doors and urge your horse forward at the gallop.</p>
<p>The guards outside are taken completely by surprise. As they fumble to unsheathe their swords, you race across the square and wave to Karvas who is waiting patiently for your signal. The prince leaps up from behind the cart and comes running towards the spare horse. He is getting ready to leap into its saddle when a gruff cry alerts you to danger. A patrol has entered the square and their officer is commanding his sergeant to fire at you with his bow.</p>
<meta><title>28</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You call upon your mastery of Old Kingdom magic and utter the ancient power-word <spell>Gloar!</spell> at the creature<ch.apos/>s torso. The concussive power of your word batters against its chest, making it shriek with pain, yet it does not deter it from continuing its hungry advance towards your horses. As it stalks closer, you see that it is drawing in great gulps of air to inflate its chest. Its ribcage expands and suddenly there is a sharp, popping sound. You gasp with fear as dozens of horned spikes shoot out of its skin and come hurtling towards you like a volley of deadly darts.</p>
+ <p>You call upon your mastery of Old Kingdom magic and utter the ancient power-word <spell>Gloar!</spell> at the creature<ch.apos/>s torso. The concussive power of your word batters against its chest, making it shriek with pain, yet it does not deter it from continuing its hungry advance towards your horses. As it stalks closer, you see that it is drawing in great gulps of air to inflate its chest. Its rib cage expands and suddenly there is a sharp, popping sound. You gasp with fear as dozens of horned spikes shoot out of its skin and come hurtling towards you like a volley of deadly darts.</p>
<p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
<choice idref="sect96">If your total score is 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect269">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
<p>You take hold of the prince<ch.apos/>s arm and pull him along as you move towards the tavern door. The Cavalians fix you with murderous stares as you leave, but they do not attempt to follow you. Once you are outside, you hurry across to the stables to fetch your horses.</p>
<p>You are about to enter when suddenly you notice the body of a young boy lying partially buried beneath a heap of straw. By the colour and cut of his clothing, you recognize the body to be that of the stable boy who took charge of your horses when you first arrived here. Swiftly you unsheathe your Kai Weapon as you enter the stables. Your caution is justified, for as soon as you pass through the stable door, you are attacked by six Cavalian bandits who have been lying in wait for you and Karvas to appear.</p>
<combat><enemy>Cavalian bandits</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You may add 5 to your combat skill for the duration of this combat, for Prince Karvas is helping you to fight there murdering bandits.</p>
+ <p>You may add 5 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this combat, for Prince Karvas is helping you to fight there murdering bandits.</p>
<choice idref="sect215">If you win the combat in three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect103">If it takes you four (or more) rounds to win this combat, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>40</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>The tip of your enemy<ch.apos/>s lance glances your shoulder and spins you out of the saddle to crash heavily on the rocky trail (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). The Bakhasians cheer their leader as he brings his horse around, and they urge him to trample you into the ground with his next pass. Hurriedly you retrieve your Kai weapon and steel yourself to face him as he levels his lance and comes thundering down the trail.</p>
+ <p>The tip of your enemy<ch.apos/>s lance glances your shoulder and spins you out of the saddle to crash heavily on the rocky trail (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). The Bakhasians cheer their leader as he brings his horse around, and they urge him to trample you into the ground with his next pass. Hurriedly you retrieve your Kai Weapon and steel yourself to face him as he levels his lance and comes thundering down the trail.</p>
<p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Weaponmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2. If you possess Assimilance, add 1.</p>
<choice idref="sect343">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect117">If it is 4<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
<meta><title>42</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>It is a difficult struggle to keep the <cite>Starstrider</cite> on a straight and level course for she veers continually towards starboard. To counter this persistent drift you pull the wheel hard to port, yet the effects of her damaged stabilizer are unpredictable, making it almost impossible for you to maintain any sure control of the helm. In desperation, you muster all of your Kai senses and focus them on the narrow strip of land which separates the fissures. Bolts of searing energy leap out of these chasms and soar past the skyship on either side to explode with thunderous cacophony among the rolling clouds. The crew cower with terror, but you keep your nerve and let your Kai skills take full control of the wheel. After several nerve-racking miles the fissures eventually taper off and then disappear completely.</p>
+ <p>It is a difficult struggle to keep the <cite>Starstrider</cite> on a straight and level course for she veers continually towards starboard. To counter this persistent drift you pull the wheel hard to port, yet the effects of her damaged stabilizer are unpredictable, making it almost impossible for you to maintain any sure control of the helm. In desperation, you muster all of your Kai senses and focus them on the narrow strip of land which separates the fissures. Bolts of searing energy leap out of these chasms and soar past the skyship on either side to explode with thunderous cacophony among the roiling clouds. The crew cower with terror, but you keep your nerve and let your Kai skills take full control of the wheel. After several nerve-wracking miles the fissures eventually taper off and then disappear completely.</p>
<p>As the <cite>Starstrider</cite> emerges from the gauntlet of deadly white fire, the crew give a loud cheer in appreciation of your skilful helmsmanship. Gladly you acknowledge their praise, but you maintain your grip of the helm for your kai senses are screaming a warning that the danger has not yet passed.</p>
<choice idref="sect302"><link-text>Turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<data>
<p>Beyond the arch is a narrow brick walkway which borders the river. You hurry along this unlit footpath until you come to a flight of steps that leads to a flagstoned loading area crowded with soldiers and wagons. By keeping low and moving from one wagon to the next, you and Karvas are able to cross this busy concourse undetected.</p>
- <p>Soon you come to a stone bridge that traverses the River Tehda. You hurry across it and enter a wide avenue which leads to the city<ch.apos/>s east quarter. Grimy two-storeyed houses of carved hardwood pass by on either side, silent behind their bolts and shutters. At the end of the avenue you almost collide with a patrol of armed guards who are marching towards the river, and hurriedly you are forced to take cover in a timber-yard to avoid being seen. You watch the ten-strong patrol as it marches past, and note that these men are clad in black quilted tunics with wide silk leggings, and they are armed with curved swords and hand-axes. They are almond-eyed and they all have shiny black hair tied in a knot at the nape of their necks. Their leader, a stocky bull-necked sergeant, wears the emblem of Sejanoz emblazoned upon a scarlet arm band. Patiently you wait for them to reach the river but, when they do, you see another patrol come marching along the avenue from the opposite direction. The east quarter of Bakhasa is a bustling place, even at this late hour. Rather than risk being seen and captured, you decide to remain hidden here in the timber yard and attempt to get a few hours<ch.apos/> sleep before dawn.</p>
+ <p>Soon you come to a stone bridge that traverses the River Tehda. You hurry across it and enter a wide avenue which leads to the city<ch.apos/>s east quarter. Grimy two-storey houses of carved hardwood pass by on either side, silent behind their bolts and shutters. At the end of the avenue you almost collide with a patrol of armed guards who are marching towards the river, and hurriedly you are forced to take cover in a timber yard to avoid being seen. You watch the ten-strong patrol as it marches past, and note that these men are clad in black quilted tunics with wide silk leggings, and they are armed with curved swords and hand-axes. They are almond-eyed and they all have shiny black hair tied in a knot at the nape of their necks. Their leader, a stocky bull-necked sergeant, wears the emblem of Sejanoz emblazoned upon a scarlet arm band. Patiently you wait for them to reach the river but, when they do, you see another patrol come marching along the avenue from the opposite direction. The east quarter of Bakhasa is a bustling place, even at this late hour. Rather than risk being seen and captured, you decide to remain hidden here in the timber yard and attempt to get a few hours<ch.apos/> sleep before dawn.</p>
<p>Unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
<choice idref="sect340">To continue, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>47</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>The town of Jaroc has little to entice you to stay here any longer. The weather has steadily improved since you left the Dammerdon mountains and so you resolve to try to make up for the time that was lost to the storm.</p>
- <p>You leave the town and for the next two days you ride in an north-easterly direction, across a rich expanse of rolling prairie. The riding is easy and the fine weather helps you make good progress. By noon of the third day you have covered nearly 200 miles and you are feeling in good spirits. The prairie gradually gives way to a region of hilly uplands that lie sandwiched between two mountain ranges. Here you happen upon a rutted track that leaves the prairie and winds through the hills through a high pass. There are no signposts on this road, but Karvas is familiar with this region and he tells you that it leads to an outpost town called Battle Pass. You are in the land of Lunarlia and for centuries this realm has been the enemy of Siyen<ch.emdash/>Prince Karvas<ch.apos/>s homeland. Many wars have been waged between the two kingdoms and this region has seen countless battles. Karvas pledges to end these wars. When he is crowned King of Siyen he vows that he will seek a lasting peace with the kingdom of Lunarlia.</p>
+ <p>The town of Jaroc has little to entice you to stay here any longer. The weather has steadily improved since you left the Dammerdon Mountains and so you resolve to try to make up for the time that was lost to the storm.</p>
+ <p>You leave the town and for the next two days you ride in a northeasterly direction, across a rich expanse of rolling prairie. The riding is easy and the fine weather helps you make good progress. By noon of the third day you have covered nearly 200 miles and you are feeling in good spirits. The prairie gradually gives way to a region of hilly uplands that lie sandwiched between two mountain ranges. Here you happen upon a rutted track that leaves the prairie and winds through the hills through a high pass. There are no signposts on this road, but Karvas is familiar with this region and he tells you that it leads to an outpost town called Battle Pass. You are in the land of Lunarlia and for centuries this realm has been the enemy of Siyen<ch.emdash/>Prince Karvas<ch.apos/>s homeland. Many wars have been waged between the two kingdoms and this region has seen countless battles. Karvas pledges to end these wars. When he is crowned King of Siyen he vows that he will seek a lasting peace with the kingdom of Lunarlia.</p>
<p>It is noon and a warm sun is beating down on the fortified town of Battle Pass as you approach its west gate. Karvas is grateful that he is wearing the clothes of a Sommlending journeyman, for the inhabitants of this tough frontier post are notoriously hostile to the Siyenese. To your surprise, the guards at the gate pay you scant attention and you are allowed to enter the town with little more than a cursory glance. You ask Karvas why this is so and he tells you that riders approaching from the west, the Lunarlian side, are allowed to pass freely. Riders from the east, the Siyenese side, are subjected to far greater scrutiny.</p>
<p>Beyond the west gate a broad avenue opens out into a main square that is bordered by a trading post, a barracks, and a tavern. Both you and Karvas are especially thirsty after your ride through the dry, dusty hills, and you are eager to seek out some refreshment.</p>
<choice idref="sect266">If you wish to visit the tavern, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
<data>
<p>Sadanzo gasps as your killing blow pierces his heart. He drops to this knees and the gem in his hand suddenly crumbles and disintegrates to dust. With his last ounce of strength he lunges at you with his sword, but you sidestep his last, desperate thrust, and he crashes lifelessly to the floor.</p>
- <p>The destruction of Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s gem frees the Siyenese nobles from its evil influence, an influence that had robbed them of their free will. Marshal Phedros immediately orders that the city gates be sealed, and then he commands the Royal Guardsmen and the Court Cavalry to hunt down Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s robber knights in every quarter of Seroa and bring them to justice. As these noble troopers eagerly set about their task, Phedros turns to Prince Karvas and hugs him to his chest. <quote>Welcome home at last, my boy,</quote> he says, his voice wavering with emotion, <quote>welcome home<ch.ellips/> King Karvas.</quote></p>
+ <p>The destruction of Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s gem frees the Siyenese nobles from its evil influence, an influence that had robbed them of their free will. Marshal Phedros immediately orders that the city gates be sealed, and then he commands the Royal Guardsmen and the Court Cavalry to hunt down Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s robber knights in every quarter of Seroa and bring them to justice. As these noble troopers eagerly set about their task, Phedros turns to Prince Karvas and hugs him to his chest. <quote>Welcome home at last, my boy,</quote> he says, his voice wavering with emotion. <quote>Welcome home<ch.ellips/> King Karvas.</quote></p>
<choice idref="sect148"><link-text>Turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<data>
<p>Acraban repeats his order to Kuo the helmsman to reverse the descent and change course, thirty degrees to port. The bow of the <cite>Starstrider</cite> rises up and the deck banks gently over to the left. But then a second deafening <onomatopoeia>Crack!</onomatopoeia> explodes from somewhere below the stern, and you are thrown onto your hands and knees when a violent shock-wave ripples along the decking. Acraban calls for a damage report and each crewman shouts his response in turn. The <cite>Starstrider</cite> has sustained a glancing blow from an energy bolt. It has torn away part of the hull plating and damaged one of the ship<ch.apos/>s two internal stabilizers, upon which it relies for level flight. The craft ceases to gain height and begins drifting to starboard. This change of course is accompanied by a jarring vibration that runs through the deck and superstructure.</p>
- <p>The surrounding sky is now a seething mass of billowing black clouds lit up by lethal blue-white bolts of lightning. The ship passes through a dark cloud and the metallic stench of ozone fills your nostrils. This harsh-smelling gas does you no harm, protected as you are by your innate Magnakai skill of Nexus. Likewise, Acraban suffers no ill effects from the gas for his magic is sufficient to counter it. But for Prince Karvas and the crew its effects are immediate and devastating. Clutching at their throats they lose their balance and fall to the deck, choking and spluttering as they fight for breath. Acraban instructs you to take the helm while he goes below to work on the damaged stabilizer. You follow his command and take control of the wheel from a barely-conscious Kuo. As the cloud passes the crew slowly recover, but you glimpse a fresh danger ahead. The <cite>Starstrider</cite> is drifting towards two large active fissures running parallel with each other, and a little over 30 metres apart. Sweat streaks your face as you struggle to steer a straight course between these fissures and so avoid the crackling bolts of energy that are hurtling out of their fiery depths.</p>
+ <p>The surrounding sky is now a seething mass of billowing black clouds lit up by lethal blue-white bolts of lightning. The ship passes through a dark cloud and the metallic stench of ozone fills your nostrils. This harsh-smelling gas does you no harm, protected as you are by your innate Magnakai skill of Nexus. Likewise, Acraban suffers no ill effects from the gas for his magic is sufficient to counter it. But for Prince Karvas and the crew its effects are immediate and devastating. Clutching at their throats they lose their balance and fall to the deck, choking and spluttering as they fight for breath. Acraban instructs you to take the helm while he goes below to work on the damaged stabilizer. You follow his command and take control of the wheel from a barely-conscious Kuo. As the cloud passes the crew slowly recover, but you glimpse a fresh danger ahead. The <cite>Starstrider</cite> is drifting towards two large active fissures running parallel to each other, and a little over 30 metres apart. Sweat streaks your face as you struggle to steer a straight course between these fissures and so avoid the crackling bolts of energy that are hurtling out of their fiery depths.</p>
<p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery or Elementalism, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
<choice idref="sect201">If you total score is now 0<ch.endash/>2, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect179">If it is 3<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
<data>
<p>Upon reaching the shelter of the ledge, you dismount and prepare a makeshift camp in the narrow gully. Karvas is having difficulty staying awake and you volunteer to sit the first watch so that he can rest. Your watch passes uneventfully and, when Karvas takes over, you pull your warm cloak close around your shoulders and settle down to sleep.</p>
<p>It seems as if you have only just closed your eyes when you are woken by a fearful screeching. Karvas is standing nearby, braced for combat, his sword in his hand. As you scramble to your feet, he points to the sky and you glimpse the dark outline of a flying creature circling above the ledge. Its cries have startled the horses and hurriedly you attempt to calm them for fear that they will bolt and run. Twice the creature circles around the ledge before it swoops down to land on the trail. It folds its wings behind its pallid body and you see that its torso is lean and sinewy and studded with hundreds of horny spikes. Bubbling drool runs from its dangled jaw and its eye-slits emit a cold, yellowy light. Slowly it creeps towards your shelter and suddenly you sense its purpose. This ghastly being is diseases and starving; it is desperate for food and its sole desire is to feast upon the flesh of your horses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you possess a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
+ <choice idref="sect102">If you possess a Bow, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect210">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect28">If you possess Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect301">If you possess none of these skills, or if you choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
<data>
<p>Early next morning, shortly before dawn, you meet with Karvas and Sainus and go to collect your horses from the stable. As you mount them, the old man bids you good luck and he gives the prince a pouch containing 50 Orla, a sum that could prove useful during the journey to Seroa.</p>
<p>Dawn breaks as you leave Sainus<ch.apos/>s house, and you hear a bell which signifies that the night curfew has now come to an end. You ride along the waking streets of the north quarter and enter a broad avenue that leads directly to the east gatehouse. The guards posted here are opening the great east gate as you approach, and you gallop through the widening gap and out onto the plain beyond.</p>
- <p>The sun shines brightly all day and you make good progress along the trail that heads due east towards the River Sero. By nightfall you have covered more than 75 kilometres and have reached the tiny village of Xaia. Moored at its wooden jetty is a large river boat. This grand vessel is brightly illuminated by hundreds of coloured lanterns that are fixed to its masts and deck rails. You tether your horses to a post and then hurry along the jetty to where a thin man in a long black coat is seated at a table. He is counting out Orla and stacking them neatly in piles of twenty. Karvas asks if he may purchase two tickets to Seroa, but the man shakes his head and tells you that all the tickets have been sold. The river boat sails within the hour and every place aboard has been purchased.</p>
+ <p>The sun shines brightly all day and you make good progress along the trail that heads due east towards the River Sero. By nightfall you have covered more than 75 kilometres and have reached the tiny village of Xaia. Moored at its wooden jetty is a large riverboat. This grand vessel is brightly illuminated by hundreds of coloured lanterns that are fixed to its masts and deck rails. You tether your horses to a post and then hurry along the jetty to where a thin man in a long black coat is seated at a table. He is counting out Orla and stacking them neatly in piles of twenty. Karvas asks if he may purchase two tickets to Seroa, but the man shakes his head and tells you that all the tickets have been sold. The riverboat sails within the hour and every place aboard has been purchased.</p>
<p><quote>If you<ch.apos/>re lucky, you may be able persuade a couple o<ch.apos/> passengers to sell you their tickets,</quote> he says, cheerlessly. <quote>Them that<ch.apos/>s not already aboard are over there, drinking their fill at the Crown <ch.ampersand/>Bugle Inn.</quote> He scratches his stubby chin and then points a bony finger towards a ramshackle tavern perched on the riverfront.</p>
<choice idref="sect256">If you wish to go to the Crown <ch.ampersand/>Bugle Inn, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you wish to try and bribe the ticket seller to let you go aboard the river boat, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
+ <choice idref="sect202">If you wish to try and bribe the ticket seller to let you go aboard the riverboat, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<meta><title>60</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You wheel your horse about and tug your Kai weapon from its scabbard. Karvas catches up with you and he brings his stallion around to stand by your side. The pursuing Bakhasians have slowed to a halt less than 30 metres back along the trail, and their leader is shouting and shaking his fist at you triumphantly. You hear his coarse laughter and you watch with mounting dread as his staff grows in length and tapers to a point at one end. In a matter of seconds it is no longer a staff: it has become a heavy jousting lance. The armour-clad leader bellows a challenge, demanding that you face him in personal combat. With your only route of escape cut off by the burning tree, you accept his challenge. You raise your weapon and shout your battle cry<ch.emdash/><quote>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</quote><ch.emdash/>as you spur your horse towards your cackling foe.</p>
+ <p>You wheel your horse about and tug your Kai Weapon from its scabbard. Karvas catches up with you and he brings his stallion around to stand by your side. The pursuing Bakhasians have slowed to a halt less than 30 metres back along the trail, and their leader is shouting and shaking his fist at you triumphantly. You hear his coarse laughter and you watch with mounting dread as his staff grows in length and tapers to a point at one end. In a matter of seconds it is no longer a staff: it has become a heavy jousting lance. The armour-clad leader bellows a challenge, demanding that you face him in personal combat. With your only route of escape cut off by the burning tree, you accept his challenge. You raise your weapon and shout your battle cry<ch.emdash/><quote>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</quote><ch.emdash/>as you spur your horse towards your cackling foe.</p>
<combat><enemy>Zhakka (warrior-mage)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">42</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
<p>You will only be able to fight one round of combat before the momentum of your charge carries you past your enemy.</p>
<choice idref="sect40">If you sustain a higher <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> loss than your enemy in this single round of combat, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
<meta><title>61</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>Prince Karvas denounces Sadanzo as a murderer and a traitor, and you show the scroll that you discovered in the Baron<ch.apos/>s safe to Phedros as proof of his treachery. The Marshal gasps when he reads the damning contract and he orders the Royal Guard to arrest Sadanzo immediately. <quote>Take the traitor to the palace dungeons,</quote> he commands. Upon hearing this, a vast section of the stunned crowd roar their approval, and sporadic fighting breaks out as followers of Sadanzo attempt to battle their way out of the square. Marshal Phedros orders that the city gates be sealed, and then he commands the Royal Court Cavalry to hunt down Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s robber knights in every quarter of Seroa, and bring them to justice. As these noble troopers eagerly set about their task, Phedros turns to Prince Karvas and hugs him to his chest. <quote>Welcome home at last,</quote> he says, his voice wavering with emotion, <quote>welcome home<ch.ellips/> King Karvas.</quote></p>
+ <p>Prince Karvas denounces Sadanzo as a murderer and a traitor, and you show the scroll that you discovered in the Baron<ch.apos/>s safe to Phedros as proof of his treachery. The Marshal gasps when he reads the damning contract and he orders the Royal Guard to arrest Sadanzo immediately. <quote>Take the traitor to the palace dungeons,</quote> he commands. Upon hearing this, a vast section of the stunned crowd roar their approval, and sporadic fighting breaks out as followers of Sadanzo attempt to battle their way out of the square. Marshal Phedros orders that the city gates be sealed, and then he commands the Royal Court Cavalry to hunt down Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s robber knights in every quarter of Seroa, and bring them to justice. As these noble troopers eagerly set about their task, Phedros turns to Prince Karvas and hugs him to his chest. <quote>Welcome home at last,</quote> he says, his voice wavering with emotion. <quote>Welcome home<ch.ellips/> King Karvas.</quote></p>
<choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<data>
<p>You glance at Karvas and give a slight, almost imperceptible nod of your head. The Prince narrows his eyes in recognition that he understands you are going to attempt to break free from these Cavalian horsemen.</p>
- <p>You dig your heel into your horse<ch.apos/>s flank and he suddenly rears up and scrabbles at the air with his forelegs. The Knight Bachelor pulls back on his reins and turns his steed aside to avoid being stuck by the flailing hooves. At this moment, you press yourself flat against your horse<ch.apos/>s neck and urge him forwards. The knight<ch.apos/>s men bring their mounts together to block your escape, but your horse is quick to the gallop. He surges forwards and forces himself between two troopers, barging them from the saddle as he pushes through their stationary ranks. As you break out of the circle, you hear a cry and it sends a shiver down your spine. You recognize the prince<ch.apos/>s voice. When you glance back you see that he has been unsaddled and he is now lying on the ground, helpless before the stamping steel-shod hooves of the Knight Bachelor<ch.apos/>s warhorse.</p>
- <p><quote>Surrender yourself, Northlander!</quote> commands the arrogant Cavalian knight, <quote>or your journeyman companion dies!</quote></p>
+ <p>You dig your heel into your horse<ch.apos/>s flank and he suddenly rears up and scrabbles at the air with his forelegs. The Knight Bachelor pulls back on his reins and turns his steed aside to avoid being struck by the flailing hooves. At this moment, you press yourself flat against your horse<ch.apos/>s neck and urge him forwards. The knight<ch.apos/>s men bring their mounts together to block your escape, but your horse is quick to the gallop. He surges forwards and forces himself between two troopers, barging them from the saddle as he pushes through their stationary ranks. As you break out of the circle, you hear a cry and it sends a shiver down your spine. You recognize the prince<ch.apos/>s voice. When you glance back you see that he has been unsaddled and he is now lying on the ground, helpless before the stamping steel-shod hooves of the Knight Bachelor<ch.apos/>s warhorse.</p>
+ <p><quote>Surrender yourself, Northlander!</quote> commands the arrogant Cavalian knight. <quote>Or your journeyman companion dies!</quote></p>
<p>Reluctantly you rein in your horse and raise your hands. Better to surrender and live to fight another day than allow Prince Karvas to be crushed by the hooves of this arrogant knight<ch.apos/>s horse.</p>
<choice idref="sect130"><link-text>Turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<data>
<p>The speed and surefootedness of your Bhanarian stallions carry you and Karvas swiftly out of harm<ch.apos/>s reach. You soon reach the rubble-strewn gate of the fortress and dismount to lead your horses inside. Within its crumbling walls there stands a keep, a cylindrical structure of time-worn masonry. The upper parts have collapsed leaving huge chunks of broken stone heaped around its base. Where once stood a gate of gleaming bronze now only a blackened hole remains. It provides access to the inner hall and you enter to take shelter from the torrential rain.</p>
- <p>Engravings in the ceiling and walls of this derelict hall tell you that this fortress was once occupied by the Elder Magi. Both you and Karvas are fascinated by the intricate carvings and you decide to split up and explore this hall further. In an alcove at its north side you discover a shrine dedicated to the God Kai. Clumps of wild laumspur are growing around its base and you discover enough here for 3 potions. (Each potion is a Backpack Item. It will restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed after combat.)</p>
+ <p>Engravings in the ceiling and walls of this derelict hall tell you that this fortress was once occupied by the Elder Magi. Both you and Karvas are fascinated by the intricate carvings and you decide to split up and explore this hall further. In an alcove at its north side you discover a shrine dedicated to the God Kai. Clumps of wild laumspur are growing around its base and you discover enough here for 3 potions. (Each Potion of Laumspur is a Backpack Item. It will restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed after combat.)</p>
<p>You are examining the shrine more closely when suddenly you hear Karvas scream out in alarm.</p>
<choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>65</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>Quietly you recite the words of the Brotherhood
spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Mind Charm</spell><ch.emdash/>and focus the power of this spell upon the two Cavalians. For all their pomp and grandeur they are both weak-willed wastrels at heart, and instantly they become compliant to your mental commands. You ask them to hand their riverboat tickets to you and Prince Karvas and dumbly they comply. (Record the Riverboat Ticket on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you keep it the pocket of your breeches. You need not discard another item in its favour if you already possess the maximum number of Special Items permissible.)</p>
+ <p>Quietly you recite the words of the Brotherhood
Spell <spell>Mind Charm</spell> and focus the power of this spell upon the two Cavalians. For all their pomp and grandeur they are both weak-willed wastrels at heart, and instantly they become compliant to your mental commands. You ask them to hand their riverboat tickets to you and Prince Karvas and dumbly they comply. (Record the Riverboat Ticket on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you keep it the pocket of your breeches. You need not discard another item in its favour if you already possess the maximum number of Special Items permissible.)</p>
<p>Having obtained what you require, you mentally command the two fops to forget about their plans to visit Seroa for the crowning ceremony. You order them to return to the tavern and spend the rest of the night sampling its cellar of fine wines.</p>
<choice idref="sect2"><link-text>Turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>81</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>Quickly you retrieve your flute from your backpack and play a sequence of ultrasonic notes to counter the psychic assault that is battering you and Karvas. The effect is immediate and dramatic. The prince revives and is able to pull himself upright on his horse. The Inquisitor-Major and his fellow hunters, however, do not fare so well. They are immune to the sound of their own horn, but you use your Kai skill to turn the tables on them. Your notes occur at a higher frequency, one to which they are not immune. You watch with grim satisfaction as they wheel their horses about and gallop away in a desperate effort to put distance between themselves and the piercing sound of your flute, which is filling their heads with an agonising clamour.</p>
+ <p>Quickly you retrieve your flute from your backpack and play a sequence of ultrasonic notes to counter the psychic assault that is battering you and Karvas. The effect is immediate and dramatic. The prince revives and is able to pull himself upright on his horse. The Inquisitor-Major and his fellow hunters, however, do not fare so well. They are immune to the sound of their own horn, but you use your Kai skill to turn the tables on them. Your notes occur at a higher frequency, one to which they are not immune. You watch with grim satisfaction as they wheel their horses about and gallop away in a desperate effort to put distance between themselves and the piercing sound of your flute, which is filling their heads with an agonizing clamour.</p>
<choice idref="sect144"><link-text>Turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<data>
<p>You grab the soldier<ch.apos/>s spear, barge him aside, and then take off along the avenue at a run with Prince Karvas close on your heels. The solider staggers to his feet and attempts to give chase, but he soon loses you both in the darkness and is forced to give up his pursuit.</p>
- <p>You hurry through the city, past grimy two-storeyed houses of hardwood that are silent behind their bolts and shutters. The wide thoroughfare leads to a stone bridge that traverses the River Tehda and then continues into the heart of the east quarter. Here you almost collide with a patrol of armed guards who are marching towards the river, and you are forced to take cover in a timber-yard to avoid being seen. You observe the ten-strong patrol as it marches past. These men are clad in black quilted tunics and wide silk leggings, and they are armed with curved swords and hand-axes. All are almond-eyed and they have shiny black hair tied in a knot at the nape of their necks. Their leader, a stocky bull-necked sergeant, wears the emblem of Sejanoz emblazoned upon a scarlet arm band. Patiently you wait for them to reach the bridge yet, as they do so, another patrol comes tramping along the avenue from the opposite direction. The east quarter of Bakhasa is a busy place even at this late hour. Rather than risk being seen and captured, you decide to remain hidden in the timber yard and attempt to catch a few hours<ch.apos/> sleep before dawn.</p>
+ <p>You hurry through the city, past grimy two-storey houses of hardwood that are silent behind their bolts and shutters. The wide thoroughfare leads to a stone bridge that traverses the River Tehda and then continues into the heart of the east quarter. Here you almost collide with a patrol of armed guards who are marching towards the river, and you are forced to take cover in a timber yard to avoid being seen. You observe the ten-strong patrol as it marches past. These men are clad in black quilted tunics and wide silk leggings, and they are armed with curved swords and hand-axes. All are almond-eyed and they have shiny black hair tied in a knot at the nape of their necks. Their leader, a stocky bull-necked sergeant, wears the emblem of Sejanoz emblazoned upon a scarlet arm band. Patiently you wait for them to reach the bridge yet, as they do so, another patrol comes tramping along the avenue from the opposite direction. The east quarter of Bakhasa is a busy place even at this late hour. Rather than risk being seen and captured, you decide to remain hidden in the timber yard and attempt to catch a few hours<ch.apos/> sleep before dawn.</p>
<p>Unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
<choice idref="sect340">To continue, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<p>The Marshal sends messengers to the high-ranking noblemen of Siyen, all of whom have travelled to Seroa for the crowning. He musters them at the barracks and reads to them the contents of the scroll. They are outraged by what they hear, and they resolve to go immediately to the palace to confront Sadanzo. Escorted by a loyal regiment of Royal Guardsmen, the noblemen burst into the palace and meet with little resistance from Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s drunken knights. The Baron is cornered in a banqueting hall and confronted with the scroll, which he immediately denounces as a forgery. <quote>This is no fake,</quote> growls Marshal Phedros, <quote>I know your lowly seal when I see it.</quote></p>
<p>Sadanzo draws his sword with his left hand and, with his right, he pulls a glowing green gem from the pocket of his ermine robes. Your sixth sense warns you that this stone is radiating strong psychic energies. Through its use, Sadanzo is able to exert a powerful control over the noblemen of Siyen. The gem flares in his hand and the noblemen, including Prince Karvas, cease all movement. They have become rigid, like a group of stone statues.</p>
<p>Your sixth sense tells you that your psychic Kai defences are preventing you from succumbing to the power of this evil gem. You also sense that if you are to break the Baron<ch.apos/>s mental hold over Karvas and the others, you must destroy the gem that is clenched in his bony fist.</p>
- <p>You unsheathe your Kai weapon and advance upon Sadanzo. He laughs at your approach and raises his sword in readiness for a fight to the death.</p>
+ <p>You unsheathe your Kai Weapon and advance upon Sadanzo. He laughs at your approach and raises his sword in readiness for a fight to the death.</p>
<combat><enemy>Baron Sadanzo <em>(with Gem of Naar)</em></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">54</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
<p>Sadanzo is immune to Mindblast (but not Kai-surge).</p>
<choice idref="sect50">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
<meta><title>87</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You speak the words of the Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Lightning Hand</spell><ch.emdash/>and release a bolt of energy at the palisade gate. It rips through its timbers and leaves a jagged hole smouldering in its wake. Your display of Brotherhood magic clearly terrifies the guards for they drop their spears and scatter. Without looking back, you two gallop out of Jaroc and escape across the open plain that lies beyond.</p>
+ <p>You speak the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and release a bolt of energy at the palisade gate. It rips through its timbers and leaves a jagged hole smouldering in its wake. Your display of Brotherhood magic clearly terrifies the guards for they drop their spears and scatter. Without looking back, you two gallop out of Jaroc and escape across the open plain that lies beyond.</p>
<choice idref="sect303"><link-text>Turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<data>
<p>When you reach the end of the passageway, you stop for a few moments to recover and take stock of your perilous situation. Your pursuers have entered the alleyway behind you and you can hear them running towards the street. You see another alley, sandwiched between two tall buildings on the opposite side, and you tell Karvas to follow as you hurry towards it. You are halfway across the street when suddenly a second group of Bakhasians appear. They have circled around the warehouse in an attempt to cut off your escape. Moments later, the four shrine-bearers arrive with their tiger-head idol still hoisted upon their shoulders. Your sixth sense tells you that this idol is helping them to follow your trail. If you are to make a successful escape from these ghoulish soldiers, you must do something to disrupt the idol<ch.apos/>s power.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you possess a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
+ <choice idref="sect345">If you possess a Bow, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect242">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect138">If you possess Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect291">If you possess Elementalism, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
<data>
<p>Your Kai sixth sense detects that a strong concentration of evil lies beyond the door. Forewarned, you approach the iron portal with caution to inspect its lever more closely. Your Magnakai Discipline of Divination detects an aura of magic around this lever yet you are unable to fathom its true purpose. You suspect that it could be some kind of locking or holding spell.</p>
- <p>Calling upon your mastery of Brotherhood magic, you utter the words of the spell<ch.emdash/>Counterspell<ch.emdash/>and direct its energies against the door. You sense that your spell is working, but you are surprised when you detect that it has cancelled only one layer of magic. There remains in place a second layer of sorcery which contains powerful explosive energies. Your senses warn you that to touch the lever with your bare hands could prove fatal.</p>
+ <p>Calling upon your mastery of Brotherhood magic, you utter the words of the spell <spell>Counterspell</spell> and direct its energies against the door. You sense that your spell is working, but you are surprised when you detect that it has cancelled only one layer of magic. There remains in place a second layer of sorcery which contains powerful explosive energies. Your senses warn you that to touch the lever with your bare hands could prove fatal.</p>
<choice idref="sect330">If you wish to attempt to discharge the spell by throwing something at the door, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you wish to try to open the door by striking the lever down with the tip of your Kai weapon, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
+ <choice idref="sect146">If you wish to try to open the door by striking the lever down with the tip of your Kai Weapon, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<meta><title>92</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>Bravely your horse makes a tremendous leap across the tree to land surefootedly on the trail beyond. As you bring him to a halt, you pat his neck in praise for his courageous action. Moments later, you see Karvas come leaping over the trunk and you cheer his masterful display of horsemanship. With a wave of your Kai weapon you beckon him to follow as you make good your escape into the foothills of the Dammerdon Mountains.</p>
+ <p>Bravely your horse makes a tremendous leap across the tree to land surefootedly on the trail beyond. As you bring him to a halt, you pat his neck in praise for his courageous action. Moments later, you see Karvas come leaping over the trunk and you cheer his masterful display of horsemanship. With a wave of your Kai Weapon you beckon him to follow as you make good your escape into the foothills of the Dammerdon Mountains.</p>
<choice idref="sect251"><link-text>Turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<data>
<p>Prince Karvas does not relish the prospect of having to face these riders, yet he goes along with your decision and patiently you sit and wait as they draw closer. Their leader is a broad-shouldered man with a ginger beard and long wavy hair. His hair fans out from around the edges of a conical helm that is topped by a pair of polished antlers. He brings his horse to a halt before you and regards your mounts with an appraising eye.</p>
<p><quote>I see you ride Cavalian colts,</quote> he says, and he points to the eagle brands that mark your horses<ch.apos/> hindquarters. You nod in acknowledgement but you do not offer any explanation. The man narrows his blue eyes and strokes his beard thoughtfully. <quote>You do not know who I am, do you?</quote></p>
- <p>You shake your head dumbly, hoping that he will take you for a simpleton and return to his deer hunting. <quote>I am Halx<ch.emdash/>the Inquisitor-Major of Cavalia. Among my many duties is the regulation and taxation of horses, mules and oxen. You both ride Cavalian steeds, yet I do not recall seeing either of you in the city before. I trust your saddle taxes have been paid? Perhaps you would be kind enough to furnish your names and places of lodging so that, upon my return to Cavalia, I am able to confirm that this is so?</quote></p>
+ <p>You shake your head dumbly, hoping that he will take you for a simpleton and return to his deer hunting. <quote>I am Halx<ch.emdash/>the Inquisitor-Major of Cavalia. Among my many duties is the regulation and taxation of horses, mules, and oxen. You both ride Cavalian steeds, yet I do not recall seeing either of you in the city before. I trust your saddle taxes have been paid? Perhaps you would be kind enough to furnish your names and places of lodging so that, upon my return to Cavalia, I am able to confirm that this is so?</quote></p>
<p>You sense that your continued silence is beginning to irritate the Inquisitor-Major. His followers are also growing impatient.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you wish to say that you are special emmissaries on your way to Seroa to witness the crowning of Baron Sadanzo, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
+ <choice idref="sect116">If you wish to say that you are special emissaries on your way to Seroa to witness the crowning of Baron Sadanzo, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect123">If you wish to say that you are new recruits to the Cavalian Citadel Guard, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect44">If you decide not to say anything at all, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<data>
<p>You make your approach to within 40 metres of the gate by means of a road that runs parallel to the fast-flowing river. At this point you leave the road and scurry to take cover behind a pile of logs that are stacked at the river<ch.apos/>s edge, ready to be loaded aboard a barge which is moored close by. You can see a dozen soldiers patrolling the parapet above the river gate, and each one is clad in a suit of shiny armour made from lacquered steel scales and hardened leather. They are armed with bows, spears and maces, and their shields display the head of a tiger-like creature baring ferocious fangs. Karvas whispers that it is the emblem of Autarch Sejanoz<ch.emdash/>the ruler of Bhanar.</p>
- <p>For several minutes you observe the guards as they march back and forth with their spears couched on their shoulders. During your watch you discover that the guardsmen are not the only ones who occupy this span. On a tiled ledge running beneath the parapet is a long line of roosting crows. They are resting shoulder-to-shoulder and are almost invisible against the jet black stonework of the arch. Your careful observations tell you that the guards are alert and observant. It will be difficult to get past these men without being seen. If you are to gain entry to the city by this river route, first you will have to create a diversion to draw away the watchful guards.</p>
+ <p>For several minutes you observe the guards as they march back and forth with their spears couched on their shoulders. During your watch you discover that the guardsmen are not the only ones who occupy this span. On a tiled ledge running beneath the parapet is a long line of roosting crows. They are resting shoulder-to-shoulder and are almost invisible against the jet-black stonework of the arch. Your careful observations tell you that the guards are alert and observant. It will be difficult to get past these men without being seen. If you are to gain entry to the city by this river route, first you will have to create a diversion to draw away the watchful guards.</p>
<choice idref="sect213">If you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Elementalism, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect71">If you possess Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect109">If you possess neither of these skills, or if you choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
<meta><title>97</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You speak the words of the Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Lightning Hand</spell><ch.emdash/>and point your right arm towards the gem that Sadanzo is holding. You feel a tingling sensation run the length of your outstretched arm, and then a crackling burst of energy leaps from your index finger to connect with the evil gem. Sadanzo screams with fear as this gem crumbles and disintegrates to dust.</p>
+ <p>You speak the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and point your right arm towards the gem that Sadanzo is holding. You feel a tingling sensation run the length of your outstretched arm, and then a crackling burst of energy leaps from your index finger to connect with the evil gem. Sadanzo screams with fear as this gem crumbles and disintegrates to dust.</p>
<choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<meta><title>102</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You draw an arrow to your bow and send it speeding towards the creature<ch.apos/>s torso. The shaft buries itself in its ribcage and the beast shrieks with pain, yet it does not deter it from continuing its hungry advance towards your horses. As it stalks closer, you see that it is drawing in great gulps of air to inflate its chest. Its ribcage expands and suddenly there is a sharp, popping sound. You gasp with fear as dozens of horned spikes shoot out of its skin and come hurtling towards you like a volley of deadly darts.</p>
+ <p>You draw an arrow to your bow and send it speeding towards the creature<ch.apos/>s torso. The shaft buries itself in its rib cage and the beast shrieks with pain, yet it does not deter it from continuing its hungry advance towards your horses. As it stalks closer, you see that it is drawing in great gulps of air to inflate its chest. Its rib cage expands and suddenly there is a sharp, popping sound. You gasp with fear as dozens of horned spikes shoot out of its skin and come hurtling towards you like a volley of deadly darts.</p>
<p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
<choice idref="sect96">If your total score is 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect269">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
<meta><title>110</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You utter the words of the Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/>Net<ch.emdash/>and point the index finger of your right hand towards Karvas. You feel your arm tingle and a gush of sticky strands shoot from your fingertip to engulf the helpless prince. You counter the spell to stop the flow, and then you take hold of the net with both hands and pull Karvas out of this cavity. As you are cutting him free from the gluey fibres, you happen by chance to notice that he has a crescent-shaped birthmark on his right wrist.</p>
+ <p>You utter the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Net</spell> and point the index finger of your right hand towards Karvas. You feel your arm tingle and a gush of sticky strands shoot from your fingertip to engulf the helpless prince. You counter the spell to stop the flow, and then you take hold of the net with both hands and pull Karvas out of this cavity. As you are cutting him free from the gluey fibres, you happen by chance to notice that he has a crescent-shaped birthmark on his right wrist.</p>
<p>Once free of the net, Karvas thanks you earnestly for your timely help. Had you not acted when you did he feels sure that he would have slipped and fallen into the raging river.</p>
<choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<data>
<p>You grab the soldier<ch.apos/>s spear and pull him off balance. As he stumbles, Karvas moves forward and lands a powerful punch to the side of his head which sends the man tumbling into the river. He surfaces and attempts to shout out to attract his comrades on the parapet, but the strong current whisks him away before his bubbling cries can be heard.</p>
- <p>Stealthily you climb the steps to a flagstoned loading area that is crowded with soldiers and wagons. By keeping low and moving from one wagon to the next, you and Karvas are able to cross this concourse undetected. On the far side you discover a stone bridge that traverses the River Tehda. You hurry across it and enter a wide avenue which leads to the city<ch.apos/>s east quarter. Grimy two-storeyed houses of carved hardwood pass by on either side, silent behind their bolts and shutters. At the end of the avenue you almost collide with a patrol of armed guards who are marching towards the river, and hurriedly you are forced to take cover in a timber yard to avoid being seen. You watch the ten-strong patrol as it marches past, and note that these men are clad in black quilted tunics with wide silk leggings, and they are armed with curved swords and hand-axes. They are almond-eyed and they all have shiny black hair tied in a knot at the nape of their necks. Their leader, a stocky bull-necked sergeant, wears the emblem of Sejanoz emblazoned upon a scarlet arm band. Patiently you wait for them to reach the river but, when they do, you see another patrol come marching along the avenue from the opposite direction. The east quarter of Bakhasa is a busy place, even at this late hour. Rather than risk being seen and captured, you decide to remain hidden here in the timber yard and attempt to get a few hours<ch.apos/> sleep before dawn.</p>
+ <p>Stealthily you climb the steps to a flagstoned loading area that is crowded with soldiers and wagons. By keeping low and moving from one wagon to the next, you and Karvas are able to cross this concourse undetected. On the far side you discover a stone bridge that traverses the River Tehda. You hurry across it and enter a wide avenue which leads to the city<ch.apos/>s east quarter. Grimy two-storey houses of carved hardwood pass by on either side, silent behind their bolts and shutters. At the end of the avenue you almost collide with a patrol of armed guards who are marching towards the river, and hurriedly you are forced to take cover in a timber yard to avoid being seen. You watch the ten-strong patrol as it marches past, and note that these men are clad in black quilted tunics with wide silk leggings, and they are armed with curved swords and hand-axes. They are almond-eyed and they all have shiny black hair tied in a knot at the nape of their necks. Their leader, a stocky bull-necked sergeant, wears the emblem of Sejanoz emblazoned upon a scarlet arm band. Patiently you wait for them to reach the river but, when they do, you see another patrol come marching along the avenue from the opposite direction. The east quarter of Bakhasa is a busy place, even at this late hour. Rather than risk being seen and captured, you decide to remain hidden here in the timber yard and attempt to get a few hours<ch.apos/> sleep before dawn.</p>
<p>Unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
<choice idref="sect340">To continue, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<data>
<p>The Inquisitor-Major regards you with a sneering look that conveys his disbelief of your explanation.</p>
- <p><quote>Special emmissaries, eh?</quote> he spits. <quote>Pah! Deserters or horse-thieves more like! What proof do you carry to show that you speak the truth?</quote></p>
+ <p><quote>Special emissaries, eh?</quote> he spits. <quote>Pah! Deserters or horse-thieves more like! What proof do you carry to show that you speak the truth?</quote></p>
<choice idref="sect264">If you possess Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s Seal, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect73">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<data>
<p>You dive to avoid your enemy<ch.apos/>s lance, but your reflexes have been dulled by the shock of your fall and you react too slowly to avoid being struck by this expert horsemen. The razor-sharp tip of his lance gouges a deep furrow across your thigh.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you have picked is odd (ie, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9) deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If the number is even (ie, 0, 2, 4, 6, 8) deduct 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
+ <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you have picked is odd (i.e., 1, 3, 5, 7, 9) deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If the number is even (i.e., 0, 2, 4, 6, 8) deduct 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
<p>As the Bakhasian leader thunders past, you stagger to your feet and use your Kai skills to command your horse to come to you. He obeys, and you are able to mount up and ride back towards Karvas before your adversary can make his third pass. In the distance you can see that the tree is now burning less fiercely. On approaching the prince, you call for him to follow as you race along the trail towards this flaming pine. Bravely your horse makes a tremendous leap across the tree to land surefootedly on the trail beyond. As you bring him to a halt, you pat his neck in praise for his courageous action. Moments later, you see Karvas come leaping over the trunk and you cheer his masterful display of horsemanship. The Bakhasians choose not to follow. They break off their pursuit and allow you to make good your escape into the foothills of the Dammerdon Mountains.</p>
<choice idref="sect251"><link-text>Turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<data>
<p>This time Acraban does not argue. He bellows the order to Kuo the helmsman to reverse the descent and change course, thirty degrees to port. The bow of the <cite>Starstrider</cite> rises up and the deck banks gently over to the left. But then a deafening <onomatopoeia>Crack!</onomatopoeia> explodes from somewhere below the stern, and you are thrown onto your hands and knees when a violent shockwave ripples along the decking. Acraban calls for a damage report and each crewman shouts his response in turn. The <cite>Starstrider</cite> has sustained a glancing blow from an energy bolt. It has torn away part of the hull plating and damaged one of the ship<ch.apos/>s two internal stabilizers, upon which it relies for level flight. The craft ceases to gain height and begins drifting to starboard. This change of course is accompanied by a jarring vibration that runs through the deck and superstructure.</p>
- <p>The surrounding sky is now a seething mass of billowing black clouds lit up by lethal blue-white bolts of lightning. The ship passes through a dark cloud and the metallic stench of ozone fills your nostrils. This harsh-smelling gas does you no harm, protected as you are by your innate Magnakai skill of Nexus. Likewise, Acraban suffers no ill effects from the gas for his magic is sufficient to counter it. But for Prince Karvas and the crew its effects are immediate and devastating. Clutching at their throats they lose their balance and fall to the deck, choking and spluttering as they fight for breath. Acraban instructs you to take the helm while he goes below to work on the damaged stabilizer. You follow his command and take control of the wheel from a barely-conscious Kuo. As the cloud passes the crew slowly recover, but you glimpse a fresh danger ahead. The <cite>Starstrider</cite> is drifting towards two large active fissures running parallel with each other, and a little over 30 metres apart. Sweat streaks your face as you struggle to steer a straight course between these fissures and so avoid the crackling bolts of energy that are hurtling out of their fiery depths.</p>
+ <p>The surrounding sky is now a seething mass of billowing black clouds lit up by lethal blue-white bolts of lightning. The ship passes through a dark cloud and the metallic stench of ozone fills your nostrils. This harsh-smelling gas does you no harm, protected as you are by your innate Magnakai skill of Nexus. Likewise, Acraban suffers no ill effects from the gas for his magic is sufficient to counter it. But for Prince Karvas and the crew its effects are immediate and devastating. Clutching at their throats they lose their balance and fall to the deck, choking and spluttering as they fight for breath. Acraban instructs you to take the helm while he goes below to work on the damaged stabilizer. You follow his command and take control of the wheel from a barely-conscious Kuo. As the cloud passes the crew slowly recover, but you glimpse a fresh danger ahead. The <cite>Starstrider</cite> is drifting towards two large active fissures running parallel to each other, and a little over 30 metres apart. Sweat streaks your face as you struggle to steer a straight course between these fissures and so avoid the crackling bolts of energy that are hurtling out of their fiery depths.</p>
<p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery or Elementalism, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
<choice idref="sect201">If your total score is now 0<ch.endash/>2, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect179">If it is 3<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
<data>
<p>You tell Karvas what you have detected and he suggests that you use the rope he found in the dungeon cell below. Taking one end, you tie a slip knot and make it into a lasso. Then you cast the loop of rope at the lever in the hope of catching it and pulling it down. Your aim is true. Yet, upon the instant that the rope touches the lever there is a tremendous flash of yellow light, and a searing wave of energy hits you in the chest and knocks you backwards down the stairs.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you have picked is even (ie, 0, 2, 4, 6, 8), deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from your current total. If the number is odd (ie, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9), deduct 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
+ <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you have picked is even (i.e., 0, 2, 4, 6, 8), deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from your current total. If the number is odd (i.e., 1, 3, 5, 7, 9), deduct 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
<choice idref="sect69">To continue, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<data>
<p>You rush down the stairs and out through the tavern door. The courtyard appears to be deserted, but as you approach the stables, you suddenly notice the body of a young boy lying partially buried beneath a heap of straw. By the colour and cut of his clothing, you recognize the body to be that of the stable boy who took charge of your horses when you first arrived here. Swiftly you unsheathe your Kai Weapon as you enter the stables. Your caution is justified, for as soon as you pass through the stable door, you are attacked by six Cavalian bandits who are lying in wait for you and Karvas to appear.</p>
<combat><enemy>Cavalian bandits</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You may add 5 to your combat skill for the duration of this combat, for Prince Karvas is helping you to fight these murdering bandits.</p>
+ <p>You may add 5 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this combat, for Prince Karvas is helping you to fight these murdering bandits.</p>
<choice idref="sect215">If you win the combat in five rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect103">If it takes six (or more) rounds to win this combat, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>132</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>As the soldier approaches you suddenly realize that he is only aware of Prince Karvas. He has not seen you; the darkness, and your innate Kai camouflage skills have kept you hidden from sight. Silently you sidestep into the shadows and unsheathe your Kai weapon. Karvas stands immobile on the footpath and stares fixedly at the approaching guard so as not to betray your presence. Nervously the soldier reproaches the prince and levels his spear at his chest. He commands Karvas to state the name of his commanding officer, and when he fails to reply, your Kai sixth sense suddenly warns you that this guard is about to raise the alarm.</p>
+ <p>As the soldier approaches you suddenly realize that he is only aware of Prince Karvas. He has not seen you; the darkness, and your innate Kai camouflage skills have kept you hidden from sight. Silently you sidestep into the shadows and unsheathe your Kai Weapon. Karvas stands immobile on the footpath and stares fixedly at the approaching guard so as not to betray your presence. Nervously the soldier reproaches the prince and levels his spear at his chest. He commands Karvas to state the name of his commanding officer, and when he fails to reply, your Kai sixth sense suddenly warns you that this guard is about to raise the alarm.</p>
<p>With the speed and grace of a pouncing panther, you leap from the shadows and strike the guard on the side of the head with the hilt of your weapon. Without uttering a sound he crumples at the knees and falls unconscious on the path. Quickly you and Karvas drag his body away and hide it beneath the steps. Before you go, you make a quick search of the soldier<ch.apos/>s pockets and backpack and discover the following items:</p>
<ul>
<li>44 Ren (equivalent to 3 Gold Crowns)</li>
</ul>
<p>You also discover an iron key that bears an inscription on its shank. Your Magnakai pathsmanship skills enable you to decipher its meaning: THIS KEY IS THE PROPERTY OF THE TEHDA STABLES.</p>
<p>If you wish to keep this Tehda Key, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you carry in the pocket of your tunic. You need not discard another item in its favour if you are already carrying the maximum number of Special Items permissible.)</p>
- <p>Stealthily you climb the steps to a flagstoned loading area that is crowded with soldiers and wagons. By keeping low and moving from one wagon to the next, you and Karvas are able to cross this concourse undetected. On the far side you discover a stone bridge that traverses the River Tehda. You hurry across it and enter a wide avenue which leads to the city<ch.apos/>s east quarter. Grimy two-storeyed houses of carved hardwood pass by on either side, silent behind their bolts and shutters. At the end of the avenue you almost collide with a patrol of armed guards who are marching towards the river, and hurriedly you are forced to take cover in a timber yard to avoid being seen. You watch the ten-strong patrol as it marches past, and note that these men are clad in black quilted tunics with wide silk leggings, and they are armed with curved swords and hand-axes. They are almond-eyed and they all have shiny black hair tied in a knot at the nape of their necks. Their leader, a stocky bull-necked sergeant, wears the emblem of Sejanoz emblazoned upon a scarlet arm band. Patiently you wait for them to reach the river but, when they do, you see another patrol come marching along the avenue from the opposite direction. The east quarter of Bakhasa is a busy place, even at this late hour. Rather than risk being seen and captured, you decide to remain hidden here in the timber yard and attempt to get a few hours<ch.apos/> sleep before dawn.</p>
+ <p>Stealthily you climb the steps to a flagstoned loading area that is crowded with soldiers and wagons. By keeping low and moving from one wagon to the next, you and Karvas are able to cross this concourse undetected. On the far side you discover a stone bridge that traverses the River Tehda. You hurry across it and enter a wide avenue which leads to the city<ch.apos/>s east quarter. Grimy two-storey houses of carved hardwood pass by on either side, silent behind their bolts and shutters. At the end of the avenue you almost collide with a patrol of armed guards who are marching towards the river, and hurriedly you are forced to take cover in a timber yard to avoid being seen. You watch the ten-strong patrol as it marches past, and note that these men are clad in black quilted tunics with wide silk leggings, and they are armed with curved swords and hand-axes. They are almond-eyed and they all have shiny black hair tied in a knot at the nape of their necks. Their leader, a stocky bull-necked sergeant, wears the emblem of Sejanoz emblazoned upon a scarlet arm band. Patiently you wait for them to reach the river but, when they do, you see another patrol come marching along the avenue from the opposite direction. The east quarter of Bakhasa is a busy place, even at this late hour. Rather than risk being seen and captured, you decide to remain hidden here in the timber yard and attempt to get a few hours<ch.apos/> sleep before dawn.</p>
<p>Unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
<choice idref="sect340">To continue, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>134</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>Your warning brings Acraban to an immediate halt at the edge of the concealed pit. Cautiously you approach this second trap and, using your Kai weapon, you lift away some of the covering branches. Beneath you discover a deep hole lined with sharpened stakes. Acraban breathes a sigh of relief. Had he taken one more step he could well have ended his days impaled upon those deadly wooden spikes.</p>
+ <p>Your warning brings Acraban to an immediate halt at the edge of the concealed pit. Cautiously you approach this second trap and, using your Kai Weapon, you lift away some of the covering branches. Beneath you discover a deep hole lined with sharpened stakes. Acraban breathes a sigh of relief. Had he taken one more step he could well have ended his days impaled upon those deadly wooden spikes.</p>
<p>Carefully you both move away from the pit and skirt around it before continuing along the track towards the clearing.</p>
<choice idref="sect282"><link-text>Turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<data>
<p>You are both still seated in the saddle at the end of your first pass. Quickly you bring your horse around to face your enemy and you steel yourself as you spur him forward once more. On the second pass you are wounded in your left calf (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but your enemy is unhorsed. Your blow sends him crashing into the trees that border the trail. With the angry cries of his men echoing in your ears, you gallop back towards Karvas. In the distance you can see that the tree is burning less fiercely now and, as you approach the prince, you call for him to follow as you race towards the flaming pine.</p>
- <p>Bravely your horse makes a tremendous leap across the tree to land surefootedly on the trail beyond. As you bring him to a halt, you pat his neck in praise for his courageous action. Moments later, you see Karvas come leaping over the trunk and you cheer his masterful display of horsemanship. With a wave of your Kai weapon you beckon him to follow as you make good your escape into the foothills of the Dammerdon Mountains.</p>
+ <p>Bravely your horse makes a tremendous leap across the tree to land surefootedly on the trail beyond. As you bring him to a halt, you pat his neck in praise for his courageous action. Moments later, you see Karvas come leaping over the trunk and you cheer his masterful display of horsemanship. With a wave of your Kai Weapon you beckon him to follow as you make good your escape into the foothills of the Dammerdon Mountains.</p>
<choice idref="sect251"><link-text>Turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<data>
<p>The rock knocks you unconscious and you fall from your saddle to crash head-first into the ground. Moments later, your horse and your limp body are washed away by millions of gallons of roaring water that flood down from surrounding slopes.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in the Dammerdon mountains.</p>
+ <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in the Dammerdon Mountains.</p>
</data>
</section>
<p>As you rush through the doorway you are brought skidding to a halt when you are confronted by seven armoured knights. Your stomach churns when you see that they wear the eagle<ch.apos/>s head emblem of Sadanzo upon their surcoats. Their presence here makes you realize that they have been following your trail ever since your daring escape from Cavalia. The delay that you experienced at Varedo bought them the few hours they needed in order to get ahead of you and set up their deadly ambush.</p>
<p><quote>Farewell Prince Karvas!</quote> growls a knight, his gutteral voice partially muffled by the iron strips that criss-cross the visor of his iron helm. He raises his gleaming axe and all seven warriors rush forward and attack you simultaneously.</p>
<combat><enemy>Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s knights</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You cannot evade this combat, but you may add 5 to your combat skill for the duration of this fight Prince Karvas is fighting at your side. If you possess the Kai Weapon <quote>Kaistar</quote> you may add the appropriate combat skill bonus for fighting at night.</p>
+ <p>You cannot evade this combat, but you may add 5 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight Prince Karvas is fighting at your side. If you possess the Kai Weapon <quote>Kaistar</quote> you may add the appropriate <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> bonus for fighting at night.</p>
<choice idref="sect108">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<meta><title>160</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You run past the gate guards and through the open archway into a flagstoned concourse. By keeping low and hiding in the shadows, you and Karvas are able to cross this open plaza undetected and make your way along an empty avenue which bisects the city<ch.apos/>s west quarter. Grimy two-storeyed houses of carved hardwood pass by on either side, silent behind their bolts and shutters.</p>
+ <p>You run past the gate guards and through the open archway into a flagstoned concourse. By keeping low and hiding in the shadows, you and Karvas are able to cross this open plaza undetected and make your way along an empty avenue which bisects the city<ch.apos/>s west quarter. Grimy two-storey houses of carved hardwood pass by on either side, silent behind their bolts and shutters.</p>
<p>The avenue leads to a stone bridge that traverses the River Tehda and then continues into the heart of the east quarter. Here you almost collide with a patrol of armed guards who are marching towards the river, and hurriedly you are forced to take cover in a timber yard to avoid being seen. You watch the ten-strong patrol as it marches past. These men are clad in black quilted tunics and wide silk leggings, and they are armed with curved swords and hand-axes. They are almond-eyed and they all have shiny black hair tied in a knot at the nape of their necks. Their leader, a stocky bull-necked sergeant, wears the emblem of Sejanoz emblazoned upon a scarlet arm band. Patiently you wait for them to reach the bridge but, as they do so, another patrol comes marching along the avenue from the opposite direction. The east quarter of Bakhasa is a busy place, even at this late hour. Rather than risk being seen and captured, you decide to remain hidden here in the timber yard and attempt to get a few hours<ch.apos/> sleep before dawn.</p>
<p>Unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
<choice idref="sect340">To continue, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
<data>
<p>Beyond the draperies you find a circular chamber with a polished wooden floor. The dark oak surface is inlaid with lighter woods which form intricate pentagrams and other mystical patterns. The walls are lined with shelves which store a vast number of books, scrolls and parchments. Your Kai senses warn you that these are works of great evil; it is a library of sorcerous manuals and tomes of worship dedicated to Naar. Prince Karvas is repulsed by the sight of this evil repository. It confirms the suspicion he has held for many years, that Baron Sadanzo is a secret disciple of the Dark God.</p>
<p>You scan the walls and your Kai senses reel in the face of the evil that festers here. Your instincts tell you to destroy these vile works, to put them to the torch, yet to do so could jeopardise your chances of making a successful escape from the citadel. Rather than take that risk you decide to leave this evil library at once, but as you are retreating towards the archway you notice a square plate of steel sandwiched among the books on a middle shelf. A closer look reveals it to be the door of a wall safe. There is a dial at its centre, similar to the cylinder lock which secured the door to your prison cell. Your sixth sense reveals that only two digits are required to open this safe.</p>
- <p>The first number in the sequence is equal to the number of bonus points added to combat skill when the Kai Weapon <quote>Alema</quote> is used against undead enemies. The second is equivalent to half of the <cite>Starstrider</cite><ch.apos/>s full compliment of crewmen (not including Acraban).</p>
+ <p>The first number in the sequence is equal to the number of bonus points added to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> when the Kai Weapon <quote>Alema</quote> is used against undead enemies. The second is equivalent to half of the <cite>Starstrider</cite><ch.apos/>s full compliment of crewmen (not including Acraban).</p>
<p>When you think you know the two-digit answer, note down the figures in order and turn to the section of the book which is the same as your answer.<footref id="sect178-1" idref="sect178-1-foot"/></p>
<choice idref="sect258">If you are unable to determine the correct solution, <link-text>turn instead to 258</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>185</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You draw your Kai weapon and touch the surface of the emblem with its gleaming blade. Instantly the concealed panel slides away to reveal a recess which contains a dagger crudely carved from a strange, scarlet-veined stone. Its rough-hewn blade is stained with dried blood and your stomach chums when your sixth sense detects that it has been used for human sacrifices.</p>
+ <p>You draw your Kai Weapon and touch the surface of the emblem with its gleaming blade. Instantly the concealed panel slides away to reveal a recess which contains a dagger crudely carved from a strange, scarlet-veined stone. Its rough-hewn blade is stained with dried blood and your stomach chums when your sixth sense detects that it has been used for human sacrifices.</p>
<p>(If you wish to keep this Stone Dagger, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you carry in your backpack.)</p>
<choice idref="sect329">To continue, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>188</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You take a scroll, one of many that are crammed between the books that line the surrounding shelves, and you place it in the empty safe. Then you recite the words of the Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Lightning Hand</spell><ch.emdash/>and point your right index finger at the scroll. An arc of crackling fire jumps from your hand and ignites the yellowed parchment, causing it to burn fiercely. You wait for a few moments until all that remains of the scroll is a layer of flaky ash, and then you slam shut the door and spin its dial. Now, should Sadanzo open his safe, he will find that his contract with the Assassins<ch.apos/> Guild has mysteriously combusted.</p>
+ <p>You take a scroll, one of many that are crammed between the books that line the surrounding shelves, and you place it in the empty safe. Then you recite the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and point your right index finger at the scroll. An arc of crackling fire jumps from your hand and ignites the yellowed parchment, causing it to burn fiercely. You wait for a few moments until all that remains of the scroll is a layer of flaky ash, and then you slam shut the door and spin its dial. Now, should Sadanzo open his safe, he will find that his contract with the Assassins<ch.apos/> Guild has mysteriously combusted.</p>
<p>Your work done, you turn away from the safe and motion Karvas to follow as you hurry to leave this evil library. But, as you are approaching the arch which leads to the adjoining chamber, you suddenly hear a noise which makes you both stop dead in your tracks.</p>
<choice idref="sect86"><link-text>Turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>190</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>The courtyard is bounded on three sides by paddocks, tack rooms and an equestrian training park. There are only two guards on duty here inside the compound, the others having been called upon to assist the patrols who are out searching the city. They are both asleep at their posts and you have no difficulty tiptoeing past them and entering the paddocks where the horses are stabled.</p>
+ <p>The courtyard is bounded on three sides by paddocks, tack rooms, and an equestrian training park. There are only two guards on duty here inside the compound, the others having been called upon to assist the patrols that are out searching the city. They are both asleep at their posts and you have no difficulty tiptoeing past them and entering the paddocks where the horses are stabled.</p>
<p>You search the stalls and soon discover two black Bhanarian stallions of magnificent quality and breeding. They will make ideal mounts for you and Prince Karvas. These intelligent animals respond readily to your Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control and they remain calm and composed as you hurriedly fix their saddles and bridles. As you are leading them out into the courtyard, you stop to unbuckle a swordbelt from the belly of a steeping guard. Prince Karvas is unarmed and you are sure he will appreciate this weapon more than its present owner.</p>
<p>You lead the horses across the courtyard and as you approach the stables<ch.apos/> main doors, you mount one of them and fix the reins of the other to your stirrup. Then you kick open one of the double doors and urge your horse forward at the gallop.</p>
<p>The guards outside are taken completely by surprise. As they fumble to unsheathe their swords, you race across the square and wave to Karvas who is waiting patiently for your signal. The prince leaps up from behind the cart and comes running towards the spare horse. He is getting ready to leap for its saddle when a gruff cry alerts you to danger. A patrol has entered the square and their officer is commanding his sergeant to fire at you with his bow.</p>
<meta><title>191</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You speak the words of the Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/>Net<ch.emdash/>and level your right hand at the onrushing lancer. Waves of energy ripple down your arm and then a mass of sticky fibres gushes from your open palm. The lancer<ch.apos/>s eyes are wide with terror as the sticky strands engulf his head and shoulders. With a muffled scream, he drops his lance and tumbles backwards out of the saddle to crash down heavily upon the cobblestoned passageway.</p>
+ <p>You speak the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Net</spell> and level your right hand at the onrushing lancer. Waves of energy ripple down your arm and then a mass of sticky fibres gushes from your open palm. The lancer<ch.apos/>s eyes are wide with terror as the sticky strands engulf his head and shoulders. With a muffled scream, he drops his lance and tumbles backwards out of the saddle to crash down heavily upon the cobblestoned passageway.</p>
<choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<meta><title>192</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You fix the trader with a piercing stare and quietly breathe the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Mind Charm</spell>. As the spell takes hold, you command him mentally to signal to his men that all is well between you. Your magical charm instils a sense of calm well being into the man and he begins to relax and smile. He complies with your command and the two Mythenians turn away. When you are sure that they are out of earshot, you ask the trader if he knows the whereabouts of Prince Karvas of Siyen. He tells you that the prince does not reside in the city. There is a rumour that he lives somewhere on the remote northern coast of Sheasu. He also tells you that Karvas is not alone. Shortly after he came here, almost a decade ago, he was joined by a young woman. They were married by a sea captain in Mydnight harbour, on board the deck of his trading ship, and ever since their wedding day they have rarely been seen again.</p>
+ <p>You fix the trader with a piercing stare and quietly breathe the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Mind Charm</spell>. As the spell takes hold, you command him mentally to signal to his men that all is well between you. Your magical charm instils a sense of calm well being into the man and he begins to relax and smile. He complies with your command and the two Mythenians turn away. When you are sure that they are out of earshot, you ask the trader if he knows the whereabouts of Prince Karvas of Siyen. He tells you that the prince does not reside in the city. There is a rumour that he lives somewhere on the remote northern coast of Sheasu. He also tells you that Karvas is not alone. Shortly after he came here, almost a decade ago, he was joined by a young woman. They were married by a sea captain in Mydnight harbour, on board the deck of his trading ship, and ever since their wedding day they have rarely been seen again.</p>
<p>You thank the trader for his help and leave the warehouse before the effects of the mind charm wear off. On returning to the quayside you set out to explore the tangle of alleyways that make up the city<ch.apos/>s eastern quarter in the hope of discovering more about the prince and his wife. Unfortunately, your efforts garner no new information. As the sun begins to settle on the horizon, you abandon yon search and hurry back through the darkening passageways towards the market square.</p>
<choice idref="sect308"><link-text>Turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<data>
<p>The rock gashes your neck (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and you nearly fall from the saddle, but you manage to keep hold of the reins and pull yourself upright.</p>
<p>The speed and surefootedness of your Bhanarian stallions carry you and Karvas swiftly out of harm<ch.apos/>s way. You soon reach the rubble-strewn gate of the fortress and dismount to lead your horses inside. Within its crumbling walls there stands a keep, a cylindrical structure of time-worn masonry. The upper parts have collapsed leaving huge chunks of broken stone heaped around its base. Where once stood a gate of gleaming bronze now only a blackened hole remains. It provides access to an inner hall and you enter to take shelter from the torrential rain.</p>
- <p>Engravings in the ceiling and walls of this derelict hall tell you that this fortress was once occupied by the Elder Magi. Both you and Karvas are fascinated by the intricate carvings and you decide to split up and explore this hall further. In an alcove at its north side you discover a shrine dedicated to the God Kai. Clumps of wild laumspur are growing around its base and you discover enough here for 3 potions. (Each potion is a Backpack Item. It will restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed after combat.)</p>
+ <p>Engravings in the ceiling and walls of this derelict hall tell you that this fortress was once occupied by the Elder Magi. Both you and Karvas are fascinated by the intricate carvings and you decide to split up and explore this hall further. In an alcove at its north side you discover a shrine dedicated to the God Kai. Clumps of wild laumspur are growing around its base and you discover enough here for 3 potions. (Each Potion of Laumspur is a Backpack Item. It will restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed after combat.)</p>
<p>You are examining the shrine more closely suddenly you hear Karvas scream out in alarm.</p>
<choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>205</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You utter the words of the Old Kingdom spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Invisible Fist</spell><ch.emdash/>as slowly you clench the fingers of your right hand. Upon the final word, you thrust your clenched fist at the gem in Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s hand and the Baron screams with fear. The brute power of your spell hits the gem and smashes it to dust.</p>
+ <p>You utter the words of the Old Kingdom spell <spell>Invisible Fist</spell> as slowly you clench the fingers of your right hand. Upon the final word, you thrust your clenched fist at the gem in Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s hand and the Baron screams with fear. The brute power of your spell hits the gem and smashes it to dust.</p>
<choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<meta><title>210</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You utter the words of the Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Lightning Hand</spell><ch.emdash/>and level your right arm towards the creature<ch.apos/>s torso. An arc of electrical power leaps from your hand and stabs the beast<ch.apos/>s chest, making it shriek with pain, yet it does not deter it from continuing its hungry advance towards your horses. As is stalks closer, you see that it is drawing in great gulps of air to inflate its chest. Its ribcage expands and suddenly there is a sharp, popping sound. You gasp with fear as dozens of horned spikes shoot out of its skin and come hurtling towards you like a volley of deadly darts.</p>
+ <p>You utter the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and level your right arm towards the creature<ch.apos/>s torso. An arc of electrical power leaps from your hand and stabs the beast<ch.apos/>s chest, making it shriek with pain, yet it does not deter it from continuing its hungry advance towards your horses. As is stalks closer, you see that it is drawing in great gulps of air to inflate its chest. Its rib cage expands and suddenly there is a sharp, popping sound. You gasp with fear as dozens of horned spikes shoot out of its skin and come hurtling towards you like a volley of deadly darts.</p>
<p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
<choice idref="sect96">If your total score is 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect269">If it is 5 of more, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
<meta><title>214</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>Your advanced tracking skills alert you to the presence of a concealed pit which bisects the trail ahead. It has been covered with pine branches and camouflaged with a thin layer of earth and stones, so as to make it indistinguishable from the rest of the trail. Cautiously you approach this trap and, using your Kai weapon, you lift away some of the branches. Beneath you discover a deep pit lined with sharpened stakes.</p>
+ <p>Your advanced tracking skills alert you to the presence of a concealed pit which bisects the trail ahead. It has been covered with pine branches and camouflaged with a thin layer of earth and stones, so as to make it indistinguishable from the rest of the trail. Cautiously you approach this trap and, using your Kai Weapon, you lift away some of the branches. Beneath you discover a deep pit lined with sharpened stakes.</p>
<p>Carefully you and Acraban skirt around the edge of this trap and then continue along the track towards the clearing.</p>
<choice idref="sect282"><link-text>Turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>216</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>Hastily you utter the words of Old Kingdom spell<ch.emdash/>Shield<ch.emdash/>and make a circular motion with the palm of your right hand. The shield of energy you create has only partially formed when the dagger strikes, yet it is sufficient to deflect it away from your chest.</p>
+ <p>Hastily you utter the words of Old Kingdom spell <spell>Shield</spell> and make a circular motion with the palm of your right hand. The shield of energy you create has only partially formed when the dagger strikes, yet it is sufficient to deflect it away from your chest.</p>
<p>The guard gasps with shock and turns to run, but you leap on him and drag him to the ground. In his blind panic he is able to squirm from under you and scramble to his feet. He tries to land a kick to your chin but you turn his foot aside with your forearm and it brushes harmlessly past your head. As he struggles to regain his balance, you spring to your feet and attack.</p>
<combat><enemy>Tehda Stables Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
<p>(You fight this combat without weapons; ignore all weapon bonuses)</p>
<meta><title>217</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You speak the words of the Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/>Counterspell<ch.emdash/>and direct its power at the whirling swords. The blades are slowed by the effects of your spell, but the magic that animates them is far stronger than your own. You have slowed them but this will not prevent them from attacking again.</p>
+ <p>You speak the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Counterspell</spell> and direct its power at the whirling swords. The blades are slowed by the effects of your spell, but the magic that animates them is far stronger than your own. You have slowed them but this will not prevent them from attacking again.</p>
<p>Once more the deadly blades draw sparks from the stone ceiling, and then they come whirling down towards your head.</p>
<combat><enemy>Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s sorcerous blades</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
<p>These blades are immune to all forms of psychic attack. If you possess the Kai Weapon <quote>Valiance</quote>, you may add the additional <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> bonus (vs. magicians) to your score when calculating your Combat Ratio.</p>
<meta><title>228</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You speak the words of the Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Levitation</spell><ch.emdash/>and feel your feet leaving the dusty street as you ascend effortlessly towards the second-storey window. When you draw level with the window you counter the spell and step through its tall frame onto a stone stairway beyond. This circular staircase leads to the top of the tower which commands a magnificent view of the city. Aided by your night vision, you are able to locate stables less than a mile to the north of the tower. You commit their location to memory and then hurriedly you descend the stairs and return to the window. Once more you use your Brotherhood magic, this time to slow your descent as you step through to the street below.</p>
+ <p>You speak the words of the Brotherhood Spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Levitation</spell><ch.emdash/>and feel your feet leaving the dusty street as you ascend effortlessly towards the second-storey window. When you draw level with the window you counter the spell and step through its tall frame onto a stone stairway beyond. This circular staircase leads to the top of the tower which commands a magnificent view of the city. Aided by your night vision, you are able to locate stables less than a mile to the north of the tower. You commit their location to memory and then hurriedly you descend the stairs and return to the window. Once more you use your Brotherhood magic, this time to slow your descent as you step through to the street below.</p>
<p>Prince Karvas is delighted to hear that there are stables in the city, and he insists that you set off for them at once. He is leading the way out of the warehouse ruins when suddenly the tower bell begins to toll once more. Moments later, the temple doors swing open and the procession of black-clad figures file out into the street. Instinctively you take hold of Karvas by the arm and pull him back into the ruins to avoid being seen by the emerging soldiers. As they pass by, you peer around the edge of the crumbling warehouse doorway to watch them. A strange feeling of unease makes the skin on the back of your neck prickle, and immediately you sense that all is not what it seems. When you magnify your vision to take a closer look at the passing figures, you gasp with shock at what you see.</p>
<choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>234</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>Hastily you recite the words of the Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/>Invisible Shield<ch.emdash/>and sweep your hand in a circle behind your head. The spell materializes barely moments before a speeding crossbow bolt hits it and is deflected away from your neck. Its buckled point trails a line of sparks as it gouges a furrow in the flagstones.</p>
+ <p>Hastily you recite the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Invisible Shield</spell> and sweep your hand in a circle behind your head. The spell materializes barely moments before a speeding crossbow bolt hits it and is deflected away from your neck. Its buckled point trails a line of sparks as it gouges a furrow in the flagstones.</p>
<choice idref="sect174"><link-text>Turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<data>
<p>The barrel of oil explodes with a bright yellow flash and the searing blast knocks you flat onto your back.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you have picked is odd (ie, 1, 3, 5, 7, or 9), reduce your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by 3. If the number is even (ie, 0, 2, 4, 6, or 8), reduce your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by 5.</p>
+ <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you have picked is odd (i.e., 1, 3, 5, 7, or 9), reduce your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by 3. If the number is even (i.e., 0, 2, 4, 6, or 8), reduce your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by 5.</p>
<p>Wincing from the stinging pain of your burns, you pull yourself into a sitting position in time to see a billowing mushroom of oily flame rising up into the darkening sky above. Instinctively you draw upon your Magnakai skill of Nexus to extinguish the fire at the base of the mast and, as these tongues of flame wither and die, Prince Karvas rushes forward to smother the smoking remains with his journeyman<ch.apos/>s cloak.</p>
<choice idref="sect121"><link-text>Turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
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<meta><title>242</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You recite the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and extend your right arm towards the nearest shrine-bearer. A crackling arc of magical energy leaps from your fingers and strikes the man in the chest, knocking him to the ground. As he releases his grip of the platform, it tilts over and the tiger-head idol tumbles from its wooden base. It hits the cobblestones with a mighty crash, breaks in two, and releases a whirling cone of red flame from its hollow core that engulfs the remaining bearers. In the blink of an eye the three men are transformed into smouldering heaps of ash.</p>
+ <p>You recite the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and extend your right arm towards the nearest shrine-bearer. A crackling arc of magical energy leaps from your fingers and strikes the man in the chest, knocking him to the ground. As he releases his grip of the platform, it tilts over and the tiger-head idol tumbles from its wooden base. It hits the cobblestones with a mighty crash, breaks in two, and releases a whirling cone of red flame from its hollow core that engulfs the remaining bearers. In the blink of an eye the three men are transformed into smouldering heaps of ash.</p>
<p>Cries of fear and outrage echo along the street as the Bakhasian soldiers witness the death of their comrades and the destruction of their unholy symbol. Before they can gather themselves and give chase, you and Karvas rush across the street and make a hasty escape along the dark alleyway beyond.</p>
<choice idref="sect180"><link-text>Turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>248</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You hurry past the gate guards and through the open archway into a flagstoned concourse. By keeping low and hiding in the shadows, you and Karvas are able to cross this open plaza undetected and make your way along an empty avenue which bisects the city<ch.apos/>s west quarter. Grimy two-storeyed houses of carved hardwood pass by on either side, silent behind their bolts and shutters.</p>
+ <p>You hurry past the gate guards and through the open archway into a flagstoned concourse. By keeping low and hiding in the shadows, you and Karvas are able to cross this open plaza undetected and make your way along an empty avenue which bisects the city<ch.apos/>s west quarter. Grimy two-storey houses of carved hardwood pass by on either side, silent behind their bolts and shutters.</p>
<p>The avenue leads to a stone bridge that traverses the River Tehda and then continues into the heart of the east quarter. Here you almost collide with a patrol of armed guards who are marching towards the river, and hurriedly you are forced to take cover in a timber yard to avoid being seen. You study the ten-strong patrol as it marches past. These men are clad in black quilted tunics and wide silk leggings, and they are armed with curved swords and hand-axes. They are almond-eyed and they all have shiny black hair tied in a knot at the nape of their necks. Their leader, a stocky bull-necked sergeant, wears the emblem of Sejanoz emblazoned upon a scarlet arm band. Patiently you wait for them to reach the bridge but as they do so another patrol comes marching along the avenue from the opposite direction. The east quarter of Bakhasa is a busy place, even at this late hour. Rather than risk being seen and captured, you decide to remain hidden here in the timber yard and attempt to get a few hours sleep before dawn.</p>
<p>Unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
<choice idref="sect340">To continue, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
<meta><title>251</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You follow this ancient trail for more than an hour as it ascends, by tortuous twist and turn, towards the forbidding granite peaks of the Dammerdon mountains. The air is now much cooler than when you first entered the foothills, and the starlight that has illuminated your way so far is fading fast. Your Kai pathsmanship skills warn you that the time has come to seek shelter for you sense a storm approaching.</p>
+ <p>You follow this ancient trail for more than an hour as it ascends, by tortuous twist and turn, towards the forbidding granite peaks of the Dammerdon Mountains. The air is now much cooler than when you first entered the foothills, and the starlight that has illuminated your way so far is fading fast. Your Kai pathsmanship skills warn you that the time has come to seek shelter for you sense a storm approaching.</p>
<p>You reach a plateau strewn with boulders where a smaller track branches away from the main trail. It leads to a large stone hut that stands perched upon a spur of granite. Further along the trail you can see a ledge of rock that overhangs a narrow gully.</p>
<choice idref="sect84">If you wish to seek shelter in the stone hut, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect53">If you choose to shelter beneath the rocky ledge, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
<data>
<p>With a sneer on his face, the man snatches his hand away. He then raises his empty pipe and waves it in the air above his head. He is signalling to someone behind you, and when you turn to look, you see eight grim-faced mercenary knights emerging from hiding places at the entrance to the bridge. They unsheathe their weapons as they swagger towards the middle of the bridge.</p>
- <p><quote>We<ch.apos/>ve got ourselves a pair of troublemakers,</quote> shouts the man with the pipe to his confederates as they draw closer. <quote>They say they won<ch.apos/>t pay us the toll.</quote> You sense that these robber knights cannot be reasoned with. All they are interested in is taking your money and your horses. Karvas draws his sword and you unsheathe your Kai weapon in readiness to do battle as these ruthless robbers quicken their pace.</p>
+ <p><quote>We<ch.apos/>ve got ourselves a pair of troublemakers,</quote> shouts the man with the pipe to his confederates as they draw closer. <quote>They say they won<ch.apos/>t pay us the toll.</quote> You sense that these robber knights cannot be reasoned with. All they are interested in is taking your money and your horses. Karvas draws his sword and you unsheathe your Kai Weapon in readiness to do battle as these ruthless robbers quicken their pace.</p>
<combat><enemy>Robber Knights of Voshno</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">47</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
<p>You cannot evade this combat. However, you may add 5 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this combat for support given by Prince Karvas, who is fighting by your side.</p>
<choice idref="sect77">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
<meta><title>262</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>Mentally you recite the words of the Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Mind Charm</spell><ch.emdash/>and attempt to use its power to command the Knight Bachelor to let you go on your way. As the waves of your psychic energy reach his mind, you are shocked to see that a green gemstone ring on the index finger of his right hand is beginning to radiate bright pulses of light. Your sixth sense warns you that this ring has the power to protect its wearer from the effects of charms and illusions. It also alerts him to the fact that you are attempting to use such magic on him.</p>
+ <p>Mentally you recite the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Mind Charm</spell> and attempt to use its power to command the Knight Bachelor to let you go on your way. As the waves of your psychic energy reach his mind, you are shocked to see that a green gemstone ring on the index finger of his right hand is beginning to radiate bright pulses of light. Your sixth sense warns you that this ring has the power to protect its wearer from the effects of charms and illusions. It also alerts him to the fact that you are attempting to use such magic on him.</p>
<p>The Knight Bachelor looks at the pulsating ring and then he glares at you. With a cry of rage he unsheathes his sword and attempts to strike out for your head, but you pull away and the point of the blade flashes past to gash your shoulder: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
<p><quote>You sorcerous spy!</quote> he exclaims. You glance at Karvas and shout for him to follow your lead. The Prince nods in acknowledgement and you dig your heels into your horse<ch.apos/>s flank, causing him to rear up and scrabble at the air with his forelegs. The Knight Bachelor pulls back on his reins and turns his steed aside to avoid being struck by the flailing hooves. At this moment, you press yourself flat against your horse<ch.apos/>s neck and urge him forwards. The knight<ch.apos/>s men bring their mounts together to block your escape, but your horse is quick to the gallop. He surges forwards and forces himself between two troopers, barging them from the saddle as he pushes through their stationary ranks. As you break from the circle, you hear Karvas cry out and the sound sends a shiver racing down your spine. When you glance back you see that he has been unsaddled and he is now lying on the ground, helpless before the stamping steel-shod hooves of the Knight Bachelor<ch.apos/>s warhorse.</p>
- <p><quote>Surrender yourself, you trickster!</quote> commands the arrogant Cavalian knight, <quote>or your journeyman companion dies!</quote></p>
+ <p><quote>Surrender yourself, you trickster!</quote> commands the arrogant Cavalian knight. <quote>Or your journeyman companion dies!</quote></p>
<p>Reluctantly you rein in your horse and raise your hands. Better to surrender and live to fight another day than permit Prince Karvas to be crushed beneath the hooves of this arrogant knight<ch.apos/>s horse.</p>
<choice idref="sect130"><link-text>Turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>263</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You dive to avoid your enemy<ch.apos/>s lance, timing your move to perfection. As you roll over and spring back to your feet, so you lash out with your Kai weapon and its tip cuts clean through the belly-strap of his saddle. Moments later, he tumbles from his horse and crashes heavily among the trees that border the trail.</p>
+ <p>You dive to avoid your enemy<ch.apos/>s lance, timing your move to perfection. As you roll over and spring back to your feet, so you lash out with your Kai Weapon and its tip cuts clean through the belly-strap of his saddle. Moments later, he tumbles from his horse and crashes heavily among the trees that border the trail.</p>
<p>His followers curse you bitterly when their leader fails to stand. They fear he is either unconscious or has broken his neck in the fall. Using your Kai skills, you command your horse to come to you and he obeys at once. Before the Bakhasians can enact their revenge, you are able to mount up and ride back towards Karvas. In the distance you can see that the tree is now burning less fiercely. On approaching the prince, you call for him to follow as you race along the trail towards the flaming pine. Bravely your horse makes a tremendous leap across the tree to land surefootedly on the trail beyond. As you bring him to a halt, you pat his neck in praise for his courageous action. Moments later, you see Karvas come leaping over the trunk and you cheer his masterful display of horsemanship. The Bakhasians choose not to follow you. They break off their pursuit and allow you to make good your escape into the foothills of the Dammerdon Mountains.</p>
<choice idref="sect251"><link-text>Turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
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<data>
<p>The city of Oberra is still mourning the death of King Oridon. Its scarlet and yellow flags hang at half mast, and many of its citizens wear black arm bands and shawls as visible marks of their respect for the memory of Prince Karvas<ch.apos/>s father. As you ride along its paved streets, you see that many of its shops and public buildings bear proclamations announcing the forthcoming crowning of Baron Sadanzo on Harvestmas Day. Most of these notices have either been torn or defaced with black paint, and this cheers Karvas, for it shows that the citizens of this wealthy city do not welcome the prospect of having Baron Sadanzo as their future king.</p>
<p>It is nearing darkness when you find the residence of Florin Sainus. It is a well-appointed townhouse built on three levels with its own walled garden and stables. You dismount and pull a bell rope that hangs beside its arched door. The prince<ch.apos/>s aged tutor is overwhelmed with surprise and delight when he opens the door and sees his former pupil standing on the steps before him. The old man ushers you both inside and orders his servants to attend to your horses. Over a reviving meal of steamed fish and oatmeal bread, Karvas recounts the perilous events of the past few weeks which have brought you here to seek his help. Gladly he pledges his assistance, but he cautions you that your time has nearly run out. Carefully he considers the ways by which you could still reach Seroa in time for the crowning, and at length he tells you of two routes. Both offer an equal chance of success.</p>
- <p>The first is the most direct route: the King<ch.apos/>s Highway from Oberra to Seroa. Normally this road would take four days to travel, but there are now only three full days left before Harvestmas, and so you would have to ride hard to make up for the missing day. The second route is partly by road and partly by river. Seventy-five kilometres due east of Oberra is the hamlet of Xaia. It lies on a bend of the River Seroa and is a boarding point for the boats that carry cargo and travellers along this major waterway. By this route the journey to Seroa can be completed in three days, <quote>assuming that the river boats are running to schedule,</quote> warns Sainus. <quote>They are the swiftest means of reaching the capital, yet they can be unreliable during spells of bad weather.</quote></p>
+ <p>The first is the most direct route: the King<ch.apos/>s Highway from Oberra to Seroa. Normally this road would take four days to travel, but there are now only three full days left before Harvestmas, and so you would have to ride hard to make up for the missing day. The second route is partly by road and partly by river. Seventy-five kilometres due east of Oberra is the hamlet of Xaia. It lies on a bend of the River Seroa and is a boarding point for the boats that carry cargo and travellers along this major waterway. By this route the journey to Seroa can be completed in three days, <quote>assuming that the riverboats are running to schedule,</quote> warns Sainus. <quote>They are the swiftest means of reaching the capital, yet they can be unreliable during spells of bad weather.</quote></p>
<p>Karvas proposes that you decide which route to take and then leave Oberra at once. <quote>If we commence our journey this night, we may gain a few precious hours that could ensure our success.</quote> You agree with the prince that you should go at once, but Sainus informs you that it will not be possible for you to leave Oberra until dawn. He tells you that the city council have imposed a curfew during the hours of darkness, following an outbreak of thefts and murders among its prominent citizens. Sainus believes that Baron Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s robber knights are responsible for the crimes, for many have become residents of the city since King Oridon passed away. He fears that they are plotting to overthrow the council and will act as soon as Sadanzo is crowned king.</p>
<p>In light of the situation, you decide to stay here and rest, and then leave the city at first light. Before you retire, Karvas asks you to decide which route you should use to travel to Seroa.</p>
<choice idref="sect227">If you wish to travel the King<ch.apos/>s Highway, the road that leads directly from Oberra to Seroa, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you decide to travel to Seroa by way of road and river boat, <link-text>turn instead to 59</link-text>.</choice>
+ <choice idref="sect59">If you decide to travel to Seroa by way of road and riverboat, <link-text>turn instead to 59</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<data>
<p>In the ensuing confusion, Sadanzo attempts to flee the platform and escape with his entourage of robber knights. Marshal Phedros rushes forward to examine the shattered pieces of Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s gem, and at once he recognises that they are the remnants of an evil artefact crafted by Naar<ch.emdash/>the King of the Darkness.</p>
<p>He turns to the bewildered crowd and denounces Sadanzo as a disciple of Naar: a treasonable offence in Siyen that is punishable by death. He orders the Royal Guard to pursue and arrest Sadanzo immediately. <quote>Find him and take him to the palace dungeons,</quote> he commands. Upon hearing this, a vast section of the stunned crowd roar their approval and sporadic fighting breaks out as followers of Sadanzo attempt to battle their way out of the square. Marshal Phedros orders that the city gates be sealed, and then he commands the Royal Court Cavalry to hunt down Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s robber knights, in every quarter of Seroa, and bring them to justice. As these noble troopers eagerly set about their task, Phedros turns to Prince Karvas and hugs him to his chest.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome home at last,</quote> he says, his voice wavering with emotion, <quote>welcome home<ch.ellips/> King Karvas.</quote></p>
+ <p><quote>Welcome home at last,</quote> he says, his voice wavering with emotion. <quote>Welcome home<ch.ellips/> King Karvas.</quote></p>
<choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<meta><title>301</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>The drooling horror suddenly gathers speed when it catches the enticing scent of horseflesh drifting on the chill night wind. You unsheathe your Kai weapon and move forward to block its approach to the narrow gulley. You must now fight the creature.</p>
+ <p>The drooling horror suddenly gathers speed when it catches the enticing scent of horseflesh drifting on the chill night wind. You unsheathe your Kai Weapon and move forward to block its approach to the narrow gulley. You must now fight the creature.</p>
<combat><enemy>Bavazanur (Winged agarashi)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
<p>This enemy is immune to Mindblast (but not Kai-surge). You may add 5 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight, for Prince Karvas is supporting your battle with this foul creature.</p>
<choice idref="sect129">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
<meta><title>303</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>Over the next two days you ride away from Jaroc in a north-easterly direction, crossing a rich expanse of rolling prairie. The riding is easy and the fine weather helps you make good progress. By noon of the third day out of Jaroc you have covered nearly 200 kilometres and you are feeling in good spirits. The prairie gradually gives way to a region of hilly uplands that lie sandwiched between two mountain ranges. Here you happen upon a rutted track that leaves the prairie and winds through the hills towards a high pass. There are no signposts on this road, but Karvas is familiar with this region and he tells you that it leads to an outpost town called Battle Pass. You are in the land of Lunarlia and for centuries this realm has been the enemy of Siyen<ch.emdash/>Prince Karvas<ch.apos/>s homeland. Many wars have been waged between the two kingdoms and this region has seen countless battles. Karvas pledges to end these wars. When he is crowned King of Siyen he vows that he will seek a lasting peace with the kingdom of Lunarlia.</p>
+ <p>Over the next two days you ride away from Jaroc in a northeasterly direction, crossing a rich expanse of rolling prairie. The riding is easy and the fine weather helps you make good progress. By noon of the third day out of Jaroc you have covered nearly 200 kilometres and you are feeling in good spirits. The prairie gradually gives way to a region of hilly uplands that lie sandwiched between two mountain ranges. Here you happen upon a rutted track that leaves the prairie and winds through the hills towards a high pass. There are no signposts on this road, but Karvas is familiar with this region and he tells you that it leads to an outpost town called Battle Pass. You are in the land of Lunarlia and for centuries this realm has been the enemy of Siyen<ch.emdash/>Prince Karvas<ch.apos/>s homeland. Many wars have been waged between the two kingdoms and this region has seen countless battles. Karvas pledges to end these wars. When he is crowned King of Siyen he vows that he will seek a lasting peace with the kingdom of Lunarlia.</p>
<p>It is noon and a warm sun is beating down on the fortified town of Battle Pass as you approach its west gate. Karvas is grateful that he is wearing the clothes of a Sommlending journeyman, for the inhabitants of this tough frontier post are notoriously hostile to the Siyenese. To your surprise, the guards at the gate pay you scant attention and you are allowed to enter the town with little more than a cursory glance. You ask Karvas why this is so and he tells you that riders approaching from the west, the Lunarlian side, are allowed to pass freely. Riders from the east, the Siyenese side, are subjected to far greater scrutiny.</p>
<p>Beyond the west gate a broad avenue opens out into a main square that is bordered by a trading post, a barracks and a tavern. Both you and Karvas are especially thirsty after your ride through the dry, dusty hills, and you are eager to seek out some refreshment.</p>
<choice idref="sect266">If you wish to visit the tavern, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
<data>
<p>Beyond the arch is a narrow brick walkway which borders the river. You hurry along this unlit footpath until you come to a flight of steps that lead to a flagstoned loading area crowded with soldiers and wagons. By keeping low and moving from one wagon to the next, you and Karvas are able to cross this concourse undetected.</p>
- <p>Soon you come to a stone bridge that traverses the River Tehda. You hurry across and enter a wide avenue which leads to the city<ch.apos/>s east quarter. Grimy two-storeyed houses of carved hardwood pass by on either side, silent behind their bolts and shutters. At the end of the avenue you almost collide with a patrol of armed guards who are marching towards the river, and hurriedly you are forced to take cover in a timber yard to avoid being seen. You watch the ten-strong patrol as it marches past, and note that these men are clad in black quilted tunics with wide silk leggings, and they are armed with curved swords and hand-axes. They are almond-eyed and they all have shiny black hair tied in a knot at the nape of their necks. Their leader, a stocky bull-necked sergeant, wears the emblem of Sejanoz emblazoned upon a scarlet arm band. Patiently you wait for them to reach the river but, when they do, you see another patrol come marching along the avenue from the opposite direction. The east quarter of Bakhasa is a busy place, even at this late hour. Rather than risk being seen and captured, you decide to remain hidden here in the timber yard and attempt to get a few hours<ch.apos/> sleep before dawn.</p>
+ <p>Soon you come to a stone bridge that traverses the River Tehda. You hurry across and enter a wide avenue which leads to the city<ch.apos/>s east quarter. Grimy two-storey houses of carved hardwood pass by on either side, silent behind their bolts and shutters. At the end of the avenue you almost collide with a patrol of armed guards who are marching towards the river, and hurriedly you are forced to take cover in a timber yard to avoid being seen. You watch the ten-strong patrol as it marches past, and note that these men are clad in black quilted tunics with wide silk leggings, and they are armed with curved swords and hand-axes. They are almond-eyed and they all have shiny black hair tied in a knot at the nape of their necks. Their leader, a stocky bull-necked sergeant, wears the emblem of Sejanoz emblazoned upon a scarlet arm band. Patiently you wait for them to reach the river but, when they do, you see another patrol come marching along the avenue from the opposite direction. The east quarter of Bakhasa is a busy place, even at this late hour. Rather than risk being seen and captured, you decide to remain hidden here in the timber yard and attempt to get a few hours<ch.apos/> sleep before dawn.</p>
<p>Unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
<choice idref="sect340">To continue, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>305</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You utter the words of the Old Kingdom spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Invisible Fist</spell><ch.emdash/>and thrust your right arm stiffly towards the onrushing lancer. A wave of energy surges from your clenched fist and strikes the man squarely in the chest. With a muffled scream, he flings his lance into the air and tumbles backwards out of the saddle to crash down heavily upon the cobblestoned passageway.</p>
+ <p>You utter the words of the Old Kingdom spell <spell>Invisible Fist</spell> and thrust your right arm stiffly towards the onrushing lancer. A wave of energy surges from your clenched fist and strikes the man squarely in the chest. With a muffled scream, he flings his lance into the air and tumbles backwards out of the saddle to crash down heavily upon the cobblestoned passageway.</p>
<choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<meta><title>309</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>Quietly you recite the words of the Brotherhood
spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Mind Charm</spell><ch.emdash/>and focus the power of this spell upon the two Cavalians. For all their pomp and grandeur they are both weak-willed wastrels at heart, and instantly they become compliant to your mental command. You ask them to give their riverboat tickets to you and Prince Karvas and dumbly they comply. (Record the Riverboat Ticket on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you keep in the pocket of your breeches. You need not discard another item in its favour if you already possess the maximum number of Special Items permissible.)</p>
+ <p>Quietly you recite the words of the Brotherhood
Spell <spell>Mind Charm</spell> and focus the power of this spell upon the two Cavalians. For all their pomp and grandeur they are both weak-willed wastrels at heart, and instantly they become compliant to your mental command. You ask them to give their riverboat tickets to you and Prince Karvas and dumbly they comply. (Record the Riverboat Ticket on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you keep in the pocket of your breeches. You need not discard another item in its favour if you already possess the maximum number of Special Items permissible.)</p>
<p>Having obtained what you require, you mentally command the two fops to forget that they have ever set eyes on you and Karvas. As they resume their conversation, you and the prince slip away through the crowd.</p>
<choice idref="sect2"><link-text>Turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<data>
<p>On reaching the fortress ruins, you dismount and lead your horses through its rubble-strewn main gate. Within its crumbling walls there stands a keep, a cylindrical structure of time-worn masonry. The upper parts have collapsed leaving huge chunks of broken stone heaped around its base. Where once stood a gate of gleaming bronze now only a blackened hole remains. It provides access to the inner hall and hurriedly you enter to escape from the torrential rain.</p>
- <p>Engravings in the ceiling and walls of this derelict hall tell you that this fortress was once occupied by the Elder Magi. Both you and Karvas are fascinated by the intricate carvings and you decide to split up and explore this hall further. In an alcove at its north side you discover a shrine dedicated to the God Kai. Clumps of wild laumspur are growing around its base and you find that there is enough here for 3 potions. (Each potion is a Backpack Item. It will restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed after combat)</p>
+ <p>Engravings in the ceiling and walls of this derelict hall tell you that this fortress was once occupied by the Elder Magi. Both you and Karvas are fascinated by the intricate carvings and you decide to split up and explore this hall further. In an alcove at its north side you discover a shrine dedicated to the God Kai. Clumps of wild laumspur are growing around its base and you find that there is enough here for 3 potions. (Each Potion of Laumspur is a Backpack Item. It will restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed after combat)</p>
<p>You are examining the shrine more closely when suddenly you hear Karvas scream out in alarm.</p>
<choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<data>
<p>You approach to within 30 metres of the east gate by means of a drainage ditch that runs parallel to the rutted road. The heavy iron gate is open but the way through to the city beyond is blocked by four soldiers, each clad in a suit of shiny armour made from lacquered steel scales and hardened leather. They are armed with spears and maces, and their shields display the head of a tiger-like creature with ferocious fangs. It is the emblem of Autarch Sejanoz<ch.emdash/>the ruler of Bhanar.</p>
- <p>Two of the soldiers stand rigidly to attention in the middle of the road with the hafts of their spears crossed to bar entry. Their comrades are seated beside them on benches set into alcoves on either side of the open gateway. A ragged white line appears to have been drawn along the threshold of the gate, but when you magnify your vision you realize that this line is nothing more than a trail of bird droppings. On a tiled ledge above the arch of the gateway you can see a long line of roosting crows. They appear almost invisible against the jet black stonework of the parapet.</p>
+ <p>Two of the soldiers stand rigidly to attention in the middle of the road with the hafts of their spears crossed to bar entry. Their comrades are seated beside them on benches set into alcoves on either side of the open gateway. A ragged white line appears to have been drawn along the threshold of the gate, but when you magnify your vision you realize that this line is nothing more than a trail of bird droppings. On a tiled ledge above the arch of the gateway you can see a long line of roosting crows. They appear almost invisible against the jet-black stonework of the parapet.</p>
<p>After watching the guards for several minutes you are sure that they are all alert and observant. It would be difficult to get past these men without their knowledge. If you are to gain entry to the city by this route, first you will have to create a diversion to draw away these vigilant guards.</p>
<choice idref="sect182">If you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Elementalism, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect206">If you do not possess this skill, or if you choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
<data>
<p>You draw upon your psychic Kai Disciplines to block the insidious effect that Sadanzo<ch.apos/>s gem is having upon the minds of the Siyenese noblemen. Your attempt to disrupt its power requires a great effort that drains you of mental and physical strength.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you have chosen is odd (ie, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9), the effort costs you 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If the number is even (ie, 0, 2, 4, 6, 8), you are drained of 7 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you possess Kai-screen, you may reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss by 2.</p>
+ <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you have chosen is odd (i.e., 1, 3, 5, 7, 9), the effort costs you 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If the number is even (i.e., 0, 2, 4, 6, 8), you are drained of 7 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you possess Kai-screen, you may reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss by 2.</p>
<p>By creating a psychic block, you divert the energy of the gem and turn it back on itself with a dramatic consequence. Sadanzo screams with shock as the gem in his hand suddenly crumbles and disintegrates to dust.</p>
<choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>316</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You hide the guard<ch.apos/>s body among some long grasses at the base of the perimeter wall and then hurry across the field to a courtyard located near to the main entrance. This flagstoned yard abuts the entrance gates and is bounded on the other three sides by paddocks, tack rooms and the training fields. There are only two guards on duty here, the others having been called upon to assist the patrols who are out searching the city. They are both asleep at their posts and you have no difficulty tiptoeing past them and entering the paddocks where the horses are stabled.</p>
+ <p>You hide the guard<ch.apos/>s body among some long grasses at the base of the perimeter wall and then hurry across the field to a courtyard located near to the main entrance. This flagstoned yard abuts the entrance gates and is bounded on the other three sides by paddocks, tack rooms, and the training fields. There are only two guards on duty here, the others having been called upon to assist the patrols that are out searching the city. They are both asleep at their posts and you have no difficulty tiptoeing past them and entering the paddocks where the horses are stabled.</p>
<p>You search the stalls and soon discover two black Bhanarian stallions of magnificent quality and breeding. They will make ideal mounts for you and Prince Karvas. These intelligent animals respond readily to your Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control and they remain calm and composed as you hurriedly fix their saddles and bridles. As you are leading them out into the courtyard, you stop to unbuckle a swordbelt from the belly of a sleeping guard. Prince Karvas is unarmed and you are sure he will appreciate this weapon more than its present owner.</p>
<p>You lead the horses across the courtyard and as you approach the stables<ch.apos/> main doors, you mount one of them and fix the reins of the other to your stirrup. Then you kick open one of the double doors and urge your horse forward at the gallop.</p>
<p>The guards outside are taken completely by surprise. As they fumble to unsheathe their swords, you race across the square and wave to Karvas who his waiting patiently for your signal. The prince leaps up from behind the cart and comes running towards the spare horse. He is getting ready to leap into its saddle when a gruff cry alerts you to danger. A patrol has entered the square and their officer is commanding his sergeant to fire at you with his bow.</p>
<meta><title>325</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>As the soldier approaches you realize that he is only aware of Prince Karvas. You have not been seen; the darkness, and your innate Kai camouflage skills have kept you hidden from sight. Silently you sidestep into the shallow archway of an adjacent house and unsheathe your Kai weapon. Karvas stands in the avenue, his eyes fixed on the approaching guard so as not to betray your presence. Nervously the soldier approaches the prince with his spear levelled at his chest. He commands Karvas to state the name of his regiment, and when he refuses to reply, your sixth sense suddenly warns you that the guard is about to raise the alarm.</p>
+ <p>As the soldier approaches you realize that he is only aware of Prince Karvas. You have not been seen; the darkness, and your innate Kai camouflage skills have kept you hidden from sight. Silently you sidestep into the shallow archway of an adjacent house and unsheathe your Kai Weapon. Karvas stands in the avenue, his eyes fixed on the approaching guard so as not to betray your presence. Nervously the soldier approaches the prince with his spear levelled at his chest. He commands Karvas to state the name of his regiment, and when he refuses to reply, your sixth sense suddenly warns you that the guard is about to raise the alarm.</p>
<p>Like an attacking panther, you leap from the shadowy arch and strike the guard at the base of the neck with the hilt of your weapon. Without uttering a sound he crumples at the knees and falls unconscious to the ground. Quickly you and Karvas drag his body away from the avenue and hide it in an alleyway. Before you leave, you make a quick search of the soldier<ch.apos/>s pockets and backpack and discover the following items:</p>
<ul>
<li>30 Ren (equivalent to 3 Gold Crowns)</li>
<li>Ivory Comb</li>
</ul>
<p>If you wish to keep any of these items, adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>You hurry away from the alley and continue along the avenue, past grimy two-storeyed houses of carved hardwood that are silent behind their bolts and shutters. It leads to a stone bridge that traverses the River Tehda and then continues into the heart of the east quarter. Here you almost collide with a patrol of armed guards who are marching towards the river, and hurriedly you are forced to take cover in a timber yard to avoid being seen. You observe the ten-strong patrol as it marches past. These men are clad in black quilted tunics and wide silk leggings, and they are armed with curved swords and hand-axes. All are almond-eyed and they have shiny black hair tied in a knot at the nape of their necks. Their leader, a stocky bull-necked sergeant, wears the emblem of Sejanoz emblazoned upon a scarlet arm band. Patiently you wait for them to reach the bridge but, as they do so, another patrol comes marching along the avenue from the opposite direction. The east quarter of Bakhasa is a busy place even at this late hour. Rather than risk being seen and captured, you decide to remain hidden in the timber yard and attempt to get a few hours<ch.apos/> sleep before dawn.</p>
+ <p>You hurry away from the alley and continue along the avenue, past grimy two-storey houses of carved hardwood that are silent behind their bolts and shutters. It leads to a stone bridge that traverses the River Tehda and then continues into the heart of the east quarter. Here you almost collide with a patrol of armed guards who are marching towards the river, and hurriedly you are forced to take cover in a timber yard to avoid being seen. You observe the ten-strong patrol as it marches past. These men are clad in black quilted tunics and wide silk leggings, and they are armed with curved swords and hand-axes. All are almond-eyed and they have shiny black hair tied in a knot at the nape of their necks. Their leader, a stocky bull-necked sergeant, wears the emblem of Sejanoz emblazoned upon a scarlet arm band. Patiently you wait for them to reach the bridge but, as they do so, another patrol comes marching along the avenue from the opposite direction. The east quarter of Bakhasa is a busy place even at this late hour. Rather than risk being seen and captured, you decide to remain hidden in the timber yard and attempt to get a few hours<ch.apos/> sleep before dawn.</p>
<p>Unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
<choice idref="sect340">To continue, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>329</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>You climb out of the chamber and slam the trapdoor shut. Then, using your Kai weapon, you cleave the iron ring from the stone so that the trapdoor cannot easily be opened. Karvas is having difficulty staying awake and you volunteer to sit the first watch so that he can rest. You spend your watch listening to the rain beating on the slate roof and the desolate sound of the wind whistling through the mountains. When Karvas takes over, you pull your warm cloak close around your shoulders and settle down on the floor to sleep. Karvas wakes you shortly after daybreak. You have slept for only three hours yet you open your eyes feeling refreshed and alert (you may restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
+ <p>You climb out of the chamber and slam the trapdoor shut. Then, using your Kai Weapon, you cleave the iron ring from the stone so that the trapdoor cannot easily be opened. Karvas is having difficulty staying awake and you volunteer to sit the first watch so that he can rest. You spend your watch listening to the rain beating on the slate roof and the desolate sound of the wind whistling through the mountains. When Karvas takes over, you pull your warm cloak close around your shoulders and settle down on the floor to sleep. Karvas wakes you shortly after daybreak. You have slept for only three hours yet you open your eyes feeling refreshed and alert (you may restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
<p>Before you leave the hut and resume your journey along the trail, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery).</p>
<choice idref="sect292">To continue, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<data>
<p>Karvas suggests that you use the rope he found in the dungeon cell below. Taking one end, you tie a slip knot and make it into a lasso. Then you cast the loop of rope at the lever it the hope of catching it and pulling it down. Your aim is true. Yet, upon the instant that the rope touches the lever there is a tremendous flash of yellow light, and a searing wave of energy hits you in the chest and knocks you backwards down the stairs.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you have picked is even (ie, 0, 2, 4, 6, 8), deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point from your current total. If the number is odd (ie, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9), deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
+ <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you have picked is even (i.e., 0, 2, 4, 6, 8), deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point from your current total. If the number is odd (i.e., 1, 3, 5, 7, 9), deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
<choice idref="sect69">To continue, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<meta><title>336</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>Using the Brotherhood spell <spell>Levitation</spell> you rise effortlessly to the top of the wall. You then counter the effects of the spell and step between the spikes. You are getting ready to leap down into the training field that lies beyond the wall when suddenly you see a guard standing directly below you. Instinctively you leap onto his back and slam him to the ground. He tries to shout out but a swift blow to the base of his skull renders him unconscious before his cry has left his lips. Immediately you scan the perimeter of the field and the buildings beyond in case you have been seen, but there appear to be no other guards on duty.</p>
+ <p>Using the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Levitation</spell> you rise effortlessly to the top of the wall. You then counter the effects of the spell and step between the spikes. You are getting ready to leap down into the training field that lies beyond the wall when suddenly you see a guard standing directly below you. Instinctively you leap onto his back and slam him to the ground. He tries to shout out but a swift blow to the base of his skull renders him unconscious before his cry has left his lips. Immediately you scan the perimeter of the field and the buildings beyond in case you have been seen, but there appear to be no other guards on duty.</p>
<choice idref="sect246">If you wish to search the guard<ch.apos/>s pockets, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
<choice idref="sect16">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>337</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>Quickly you intone the words of the Old Kingdom battle spell<ch.emdash/>Shield<ch.emdash/>and circle your right hand behind your head. The spell materialises barely a second before a speeding crossbow bolt hits it and is deflected away from your back. Its buckled tip trails a line of sparks as it skims across the flagstones and embeds itself in the courtyard wall.</p>
+ <p>Quickly you intone the words of the Old Kingdom battle spell <spell>Shield</spell> and circle your right hand behind your head. The spell materialises barely a second before a speeding crossbow bolt hits it and is deflected away from your back. Its buckled tip trails a line of sparks as it skims across the flagstones and embeds itself in the courtyard wall.</p>
<choice idref="sect174"><link-text>Turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
</section>
<meta><title>338</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>The searing flash of the lightning strike burns the skin on your face and hands (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), and leaves you blinded for a few fearful minutes. When your vision returns, you muster all of your Kai senses and focus them on the narrow strip of land which separates the fissures. Bolts of searing energy leap out of these chasms and soar past the skyship on either side to explode with thunderous cacophony among the rolling clouds. The crew cower with terror, but you maintain your nerve and let your Kai skills take full control of the wheel. After several nerve-racking kilometres the fissures eventually taper off and then disappear completely.</p>
+ <p>The searing flash of the lightning strike burns the skin on your face and hands (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), and leaves you blinded for a few fearful minutes. When your vision returns, you muster all of your Kai senses and focus them on the narrow strip of land which separates the fissures. Bolts of searing energy leap out of these chasms and soar past the skyship on either side to explode with thunderous cacophony among the roiling clouds. The crew cower with terror, but you maintain your nerve and let your Kai skills take full control of the wheel. After several nerve-wracking kilometres the fissures eventually taper off and then disappear completely.</p>
<p>As the <cite>Starstrider</cite> emerges from the gauntlet of deadly white fire, the crew give a loud cheer in appreciation of your skilful helmsmanship. Gladly you acknowledge their praise, but you keep a grip on the helm for your Kai senses are screaming a warning that the danger is not yet over.</p>
<choice idref="sect302"><link-text>Turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
</data>
<meta><title>350</title></meta>
<data>
- <p>Congratulations Grand Master. Your mission is complete. In the face of great adversity you have met the challenge and you have triumphed. You have upheld the highest traditions of the Kai with honour and dignity, and you have displayed exceptional strength and bravery throughout your ordeal. The succession of Karvas is an important victory in the war against Evil, for it has prevented the throne of Siyen, Sommerlund<ch.apos/>s richest ally, from falling into the hands of an agent of Naar. You have earned the respect of the Siyenese people and they will never forget the debt of gratitude they owe you.</p>
+ <p>Congratulations, Grand Master. Your mission is complete. In the face of great adversity you have met the challenge and you have triumphed. You have upheld the highest traditions of the Kai with honour and dignity, and you have displayed exceptional strength and bravery throughout your ordeal. The succession of Karvas is an important victory in the war against Evil, for it has prevented the throne of Siyen, Sommerlund<ch.apos/>s richest ally, from falling into the hands of an agent of Naar. You have earned the respect of the Siyenese people and they will never forget the debt of gratitude they owe you.</p>
<p>Following the celebration of his succession, King Karvas arranges for you to return home to Sommerlund by sea aboard his royal sailing ship. The voyage is swift and uneventful, yet upon reaching Holmgard you learn of a new and deadly threat that has arisen to challenge the Kai. If you wish to confront this threat, the nature of the challenge will be revealed in the next exciting Lone Wolf adventure, entitled:</p>
<p>RUNE WAR</p>
</data>
<p>(<a idref="kaiwisdm">New Order Wisdom</a>) Replaced <quote>You are about to embark upon the final stage of a vital mission to return the fabled Moonstone of the Shianti to its creators.</quote> with <quote>You are about to embark upon a vital mission to save the realm of Siyen from the clutches of the evil Baron Sadanzo and his robber knights. It is a noble quest and its success will bring great honour upon you and the Kai.</quote>. Replaced <quote>Books 1<ch.endash/>21</quote> with <quote>Books 1<ch.endash/>22</quote>. Replaced <quote>gods</quote> with <quote>Gods</quote>. Italicised <quote><cite>Lone Wolf</cite></quote> when referring to the series.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>Dessi consulate</quote> with <quote>Dessian consulate</quote>. Added a paragraph break between <quote>orb of light.</quote> and <quote><ch.thinspace/><ch.lsquot/>Ah,</quote>. Italicised <quote><cite>Lone Wolf</cite></quote> when referring to the series. Replaced <quote>adventure) turn</quote> with <quote>adventure), turn</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect2">2</a>) Replaced <quote>under way</quote> with <quote>underway</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect3">3</a>) Replaced <quote>river (Make</quote> with <quote>river. (Make</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect4">4</a>) Replaced <quote>Items (Ren</quote> with <quote>Items. (Ren</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect7">7</a>) Replaced <quote>rolling clouds</quote> with <quote>roiling clouds</quote>. Replaced <quote>nerve-racking</quote> with <quote>nerve-wracking</quote>. Replaced <quote>grimly, <ch.lsquot/>I</quote> with <quote>grimly. <ch.lsquot/>I</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect8">8</a>) Replaced <quote>speed an</quote> with <quote>speed and</quote>. Replaced <quote>Each potion</quote> with <quote>Each Potion of Laumspur</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect9">9</a>) Replaced <quote>emmissaries</quote> with <quote>emissaries</quote>. Replaced <quote>mules and</quote> with <quote>mules, and</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect10">10</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect14">14</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect16">16</a>) Replaced <quote>rooms and</quote> with <quote>rooms, and</quote>. Replaced <quote>patrols who</quote> with <quote>patrols that</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect28">28</a>) Replaced <quote>ribcage</quote> with <quote>rib cage</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect34">34</a>) Replaced <quote>combat skill</quote> with <quote><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect40">40</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect42">42</a>) Replaced <quote>rolling clouds</quote> with <quote>roiling clouds</quote>. Replaced <quote>nerve-racking</quote> with <quote>nerve-wracking</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect45">45</a>) Replaced <quote>timber-yard</quote> with <quote>timber yard</quote>. Replaced <quote>two-storeyed</quote> with <quote>two-storey</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect47">47</a>) Replaced <quote>Dammerdon mountains</quote> with <quote>Dammerdon Mountains</quote>. Replaced <quote>an north-easterly</quote> with <quote>a northeasterly</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect50">50</a>) Replaced <quote>emotion, <ch.lsquot/>welcome</quote> with <quote>emotion. <ch.lsquot/>Welcome</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect51">51</a>) Replaced <quote>parallel with</quote> with <quote>parallel to</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect53">53</a>) Replaced <quote>Bow and</quote> with <quote>Bow, and</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect59">59</a>) Replaced each occurrence of <quote>river boat</quote> with <quote>riverboat</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect60">60</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect61">61</a>) Replaced <quote>emotion, <ch.lsquot/>welcome</quote> with <quote>emotion. <ch.lsquot/>Welcome</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) Replaced <quote>stuck by</quote> with <quote>struck by</quote>. Replaced <quote>knight, <ch.lsquot/>or</quote> with <quote>knight. <ch.lsquot/>Or</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect64">64</a>) Replaced <quote>Each potion</quote> with <quote>Each Potion of Laumspur</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect65">65</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>. Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Mind Charm</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect81">81</a>) Replaced <quote>agonising</quote> with <quote>agonizing</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect82">82</a>) Replaced <quote>timber-yard</quote> with <quote>timber yard</quote>. Replaced <quote>two-storeyed</quote> with <quote>two-storey</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect83">83</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect87">87</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>. Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Lightning Hand</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect88">88</a>) Replaced <quote>Bow and</quote> with <quote>Bow, and</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>. Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Counterspell</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect92">92</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect93">93</a>) Replaced <quote>emmissaries</quote> with <quote>emissaries</quote>. Replaced <quote>mules and</quote> with <quote>mules, and</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect94">94</a>) Replaced <quote>jet black</quote> with <quote>jet-black</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect97">97</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>. Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Lightning Hand</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect102">102</a>) Replaced each occurrence of <quote>ribcage</quote> with <quote>rib cage</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect110">110</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>. Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Net</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect115">115</a>) Replaced <quote>two-storeyed</quote> with <quote>two-storey</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect116">116</a>) Replaced <quote>emmissaries</quote> with <quote>emissaries</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect117">117</a>) Replaced each occurrence of <quote>ie</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect119">119</a>) Replaced <quote>parallel with</quote> with <quote>parallel to</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect122">122</a>) Replaced each occurrence of <quote>ie</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect128">128</a>) Replaced <quote>combat skill</quote> with <quote><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>. Replaced <quote>two-storeyed</quote> with <quote>two-storey</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect134">134</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect143">143</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect147">147</a>) Replaced <quote>Dammerdon mountains</quote> with <quote>Dammerdon Mountains</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect158">159</a>) Replaced each occurrence of <quote>combat skill</quote> with <quote><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect160">160</a>) Replaced <quote>two-storeyed</quote> with <quote>two-storey</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect164">164</a>) Replaced <quote>agonising</quote> with <quote>agonizing</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect178">178</a>) Replaced <quote>combat skill</quote> with <quote><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect185">185</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect188">188</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>. Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Lightning Hand</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect190">190</a>) Replaced <quote>rooms and</quote> with <quote>rooms, and</quote>. Replaced <quote>patrols who</quote> with <quote>patrols that</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect191">191</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>. Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Net</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect192">192</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect195">195</a>) Replaced <quote>Each potion</quote> with <quote>Each Potion of Laumspur</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect205">205</a>) Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Invisible Fist</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect210">210</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>. Replaced <quote>ribcage</quote> with <quote>rib cage</quote>. Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Lightning Hand</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect214">214</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect216">216</a>) Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Shield</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect217">217</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>. Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Counterspell</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect228">228</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect234">234</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>. Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Invisible Shield</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect239">239</a>) Replaced each occurrence of <quote>ie</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect242">242</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect248">248</a>) Replaced <quote>two-storeyed</quote> with <quote>two-storey</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect251">251</a>) Replaced <quote>Dammerdon mountains</quote> with <quote>Dammerdon Mountains</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect254">254</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect262">262</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>. Replaced <quote>stuck by</quote> with <quote>struck by</quote>. Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Mind Charm</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect263">263</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect280">280</a>) Replaced <quote>river boats</quote> with <quote>riverboats</quote>. Replaced <quote>river boat</quote> with <quote>riverboat</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect296">296</a>) Replaced <quote>emotion, <ch.lsquot/>welcome</quote> with <quote>emotion. <ch.lsquot/>Welcome</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect301">301</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect303">303</a>) Replaced <quote>a north-easterly</quote> with <quote>a northeasterly</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>) Replaced <quote>two-storeyed</quote> with <quote>two-storey</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Invisible Fist</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect309">309</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>. Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Mind Charm</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect310">310</a>) Replaced <quote>Each potion</quote> with <quote>Each Potion of Laumspur</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect311">311</a>) Replaced <quote>jet black</quote> with <quote>jet-black</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect314">314</a>) Replaced each occurrence of <quote>ie</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect316">316</a>) Replaced <quote>rooms and</quote> with <quote>rooms, and</quote>. Replaced <quote>patrols who</quote> with <quote>patrols that</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect325">325</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>. Replaced <quote>two-storeyed</quote> with <quote>two-storey</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect329">329</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai weapon</quote> with <quote>Kai Weapon</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect330">330</a>) Replaced each occurrence of <quote>ie</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect336">336</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect337">337</a>) Removed the dashes around <quote><spell>Shield</spell></quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect338">338</a>) Replaced <quote>rolling clouds</quote> with <quote>roiling clouds</quote>. Replaced <quote>nerve-racking</quote> with <quote>nerve-wracking</quote>.</p>
+ <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Replaced <quote>Congratulations Grand</quote> with <quote>Congratulations, Grand</quote>.</p>
+
<p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>Items or</quote> with <quote> Items, or</quote>, and <quote>falls to 0</quote> with <quote>falls to 0 or below</quote>, <quote>Pick number from</quote> with <quote>Pick a number from the</quote>, <quote>Turn to Combat</quote> with <quote>Turn to the Combat</quote>, <quote>to random number</quote> with <quote>to the random number</quote>, and <quote>when ENDURANCE</quote> with <quote>when the ENDURANCE</quote>.</p>
</data>
</section>
Project Aon Git Repositories / project-aon.git / blobdiff